- Setting your thermostat between 72°F and 78°F. You can increase you energy consumption by approximately 8% by each degree setting below 78°F. That can add up to a lot of money over a year.
- Clean and inspect your AC/Heating coils both the indoors and outdoors. The indoor coil in your air conditioner acts as a magnet for dust because it is constantly wetted during the cooling season. Dirt build-up on the indoor coil is the single most common cause of poor efficiency. The outdoor coil must also be checked periodically for dirt build-up and cleaned if necessary.
- Check the refrigerant charge. The circulating fluid in your air conditioner is a special refrigerant gas such as 410a puron and the soon to be phased our R22 Freon that is put in when the system is installed. If the system is overcharged or undercharged with refrigerant, it will not work properly. You may need a service contractor to check the fluid and adjust it appropriately.
- When using the fans in your kitchen and bathroom use them sparsely when your air conditioning system is running.
- Using cost-effective conservation measures will help reduce the cooling load. For example, delay heat-generating activities, such as dishwashing or baking, until the evening on hot days. Try and efficiently shade east and west windows.
- If possible don't use a dehumidifier at the same time your air conditioner is running. The dehumidifier will increase the cooling load and force the air conditioner to work harder, which in turn increases your utility bill.
- During the hot summer days when your using your air conditioning system the most, try and keep the house closed tight. Try not to let in any unwanted heat and humidity. If practical, ventilate at night either with fans or naturally by opening some windows.
Have a great day!!
