If most people can have it their way, air-conditioning would be an occasional luxury, or an item that’s used during emergencies or extreme situations only. But with the soaring heat and the fickle climate, air-conditioning systems have become a normal and everyday part of life. Today, the use of the air conditioner is an essential and basic necessity to keep the home a safe, healthy and comfortable place.
If you can’t avoid turning on your air conditioning unit on a regular or frequent basis, the practical thing to do is to find out the best practices and habits that will lessen its energy consumption and keep it running efficiently at all times. With the responsible use of your cooling systems, you can reduce your energy use and lower your energy bills, allowing you to save money and minimize the carbon footprint of your household as well.
Check out these easy and smart air conditioning tips that can be immediately implemented by your household:
Invest in regular, professional maintenance. Dust, pollen and other debris can lower the efficiency of your air conditioner by at least 15 percent. A lot of the time, these foreign particles get stuck in the inner parts of the unit and so may not be easy to notice, let alone clean. Have your unit serviced by experts so they can inspect the filters and other inner components and prevent premature damage. Schedule an annual checkup so inefficiencies in your unit can be immediately addressed.
Evaluate your insulation. No matter how cool the air your air conditioner produces may be, it won’t provide a noticeable impact on your indoor temperature if your home is not properly insulated. Seek help from professionals who can inspect your ducts and ensure that your heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) system is in good condition.
Rethink the room layout. A high-performing air conditioner may not be able to provide the right air quality and temperature if its vents are being obstructed by a piece of furniture or your home appliances. Think about rearranging the room in a way that will allow air to circulate more freely.
Invest in a more energy-efficient air conditioner. When it’s time to buy a new unit or you’re considering an upgrade, consider models with a higher energy rating. A higher rating means the unit was engineered to require significantly lower energy to run without sacrificing performance. Check the Energy Star and EnergyGuide ratings to enjoy 15 percent more efficiency from central air conditioning units and 10 percent more efficiency from room air conditioning units, compared to standard models.
