Maximizing The Efficiency Of Your Air Conditioning
If you have an air conditioner to keep you cool when high temperatures and humidity strikes, the efficiency of the unit can make an impact on the air quality and quantity of cool air the unit outputs. Here are some tips to use when doing your routine maintenance procedures on your air conditioner, keeping your home the coolest possible while saving you money on energy costs.
Changing The Air Filter
It is best to change out the air filter on your air conditioning unit once a month. This will help keep the air flow unrestricted by debris clogging the filter. When selecting a filter to place in your unit, take a look at the minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) listed on the packaging. This number ranges from one to twelve, with the amount of filtration provided increasing as the numbers get higher.
The efficiency will be less as the numbers increase however, making it more costly to cool your home. Opt for a filter in the middle of the range if you are trying to keep costs of energy down without compromising on the level of filtration you receive.
Repairing Leaking Areas
If there are gaps around your air conditioning unit, the amount of cool air getting into your home can be less than wanted. Windows and doorways are other areas that tend to have leaking points which can lead to less efficiency when using your air conditioning. Use a lit incense stick to test the areas around your air conditioner and entryways to your home. Place the stick near the area and look for flickering, which will signify an area that needs to be filled in. Use foil tape around your unit to seal the area that was allowing airflow. Use caulk to fill in gaps around windows and doors.
Lessening The Load
There are a few steps you can take to make your air conditioner not need to work as hard to keep your home cool. Place awnings over south-facing windows to help keep out direct sunlight. When picking a spot to place your air conditioner, use the north or east sides of your home so the unit is not in the direct light, which makes it less efficient.
Keep all tree branches and shrubbery trimmed back at least two feet from your air conditioning unit so they do not block air flow. Another way to lessen the load of your unit is to run a ceiling fan at the same time as the air conditioner to help distribute cooler air around your home quicker, causing the air conditioner to be needed less. To learn more, contact the experts at Arc Electric & Air Conditioning & Heating Inc.