Air conditioning systems typically take up a significant portion of your home energy costs and this figure can increase substantially in the summer season. For instance, your AC can be responsible for up to 43% of your total electricity consumption.
Most homeowners would like to improve their air conditioner efficiency in order to reduce their energy costs. However, this can be challenging due to the complexity of making such changes. Certain practices can help you save money on energy bills in the long run, so read on to learn more about how to optimize your AC unit for maximum efficiency and reduce your costs.
Preventative maintenance
Ensuring optimal efficiency of your air conditioner system is of the utmost importance to maintain a comfortable environment in your home. This can be achieved through regular maintenance performed by a professional. Usually, when an AC unit is installed, the contractors inform the homeowner that they need to arrange regular maintenance sessions. Generally, ACs need to be serviced every six months.
To keep your AC working perfectly and for a long time, make sure to become familiar with the necessary upkeep it requires. A certified technician can provide an in-depth inspection and help identify any potential problems before they become major issues, while also making sure that all components within the AC unit are running smoothly.
Regular maintenance also keeps costly repairs and replacements in check. To find the best assistance with your unit, it’s best to look for professional HVAC technicians in your area. For example, if you live in Ottawa, Canada, you need to find the best HVAC companies Ottawa has to offer to get the best preventive maintenance for your unit.
Unblock your vents
Regularly inspecting and keeping your AC vents free of dust and debris can help in improving your unit’s efficiency. Take a few minutes to inspect each vent around your home. When evaluating air vents, you need to consider the size of the filter required and make sure the vents are free of pet hair, dust, and any other debris. Also, think about when you last vacuumed the vents.
Regularly check your HVAC system’s air supply vents for any obstructions. Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate over time and cause blockages which may reduce the efficiency of your system. This is especially true if there are items like blinds, furniture, or rugs near the vents that can cause obstruction. Vacuuming and dusting on a regular basis will also help minimize this problem.
Protect the outside condenser
During the summer months, temperatures can skyrocket to extreme highs which puts an immense strain on any condenser unit. This makes the system work harder and for longer periods in an effort to keep your property’s interior cool, leading to higher energy consumption and a greater strain on your utility bills.
To help reduce the wear and tear on your outdoor unit, providing some shade is necessary. However, it is important to be mindful when shielding your unit from direct sunlight as you don’t want to impede the airflow that is required for optimal performance.
Clean the drain line
To keep the drain leading to your cooling coil clear, it is highly recommended that you pour one cup of chlorine bleach down the drain and then rinse it with a large amount of water regularly. This drain is usually found near a furnace in the basement, and performing this task on a regular basis can help to prevent blockages from occurring during the warmer summer months.
By engaging in regular maintenance of the drain lines, you can easily avoid any water-related issues from occurring. Obstructed drain lines can lead to decreased efficiency and must be avoided at all costs. Make sure that the outside perimeter of your house does not have dirt or debris covering the drain lines, and use a wet and dry vacuum to thoroughly clean them for the best results.
Final thoughts
HVAC systems are an essential part of any home, providing comfort and clean air all year round. Regular maintenance is required in order to keep the system running efficiently, as neglecting it can not only make your house uncomfortable but also pose a risk to your well-being and even potentially your safety.
Frequent maintenance and check-ups of your HVAC system by a qualified professional can be very beneficial in avoiding potential future issues. An early diagnosis of any air conditioning problems is highly recommended as most of them can be quickly solved with some straightforward tools and time.
