Does your air conditioner work harder than it should? If your energy bills are skyrocketing or your home isn’t cooling as well as it could, it’s time to make a few simple changes.

A well-maintained and properly used air conditioner can keep your home comfortable while also saving you money. Minor modifications, such as cleaning filters or using a ceiling fan, as well as selecting the correct air conditioning system, can significantly impact the efficiency of your AC.

These tips, provided by AC repair services, are some of the simple ways you can use to maximize the efficiency of your air conditioning system while minimizing your energy bills. Let’s get started.

Clean and replace the air filters

Maintaining clean air filters is one of the simplest ways to improve the effectiveness of your air conditioner. When filters become clogged with dust and debris, your AC needs to work harder, resulting in higher energy bills and poor cooling efficiency.

Here’s why frequent filter maintenance is essential.

Improves airflow: A clean filter helps air to move freely, allowing your air conditioner to cool your home more efficiently.

Reduces energy costs: A clogged filter causes your system to work harder, resulting in increased energy usage. Regular cleaning or replacement can cut your AC’s energy consumption by up to 15%.

Improves air quality: Dirty filters circulate dust, allergens, and pollutants, harming indoor air quality and, in most cases, triggering allergies or respiratory problems.

Increases AC lifespan: A well-maintained system faces less strain, resulting in reduced wear and tear over time.

Check your filters every 1-3 months and clean or replace them as needed to ensure your AC functions smoothly throughout the year.

The cool thing with air filters is that you don’t need to hire a professional to help you clean or replace them—you can do it by yourself.

Start by checking the owner’s manual to locate the air filters. It is typically located inside the air handler unit, a dedicated slot on the furnace, or within a return air grille.

Before changing the air filter, turn off the air conditioning unit to ensure safety. This inhibits the device from pulling in air as you operate.

Slide out the old filter gently. If it’s hidden behind a grille, remove the screws or latches to gain access. Make a note of the former filter’s size and orientation for future reference.

Inspect the old filter for dirt and debris. If it is dusty or blocked, replace it to ensure peak system function.

Refer to your owner’s handbook to determine the appropriate filter size and type. Insert the new filter with the arrows or airflow indicators facing the blower motor, or as directed on the filter.

Make sure the new filter is securely in place. If any covers, screws, or latches were removed, replace them to prevent air bypass and ensure system integrity.

Once the new filter is in place, turn the air conditioner back on. Check for any unexpected noises and make sure everything works properly with the new filter.

Most filters require replacement every 1 to 3 months, but this might vary depending on the filter type and home conditions.

Find the sweet spot

Set your thermostat to maintain a consistent, higher temperature.

Aim for a comfortable yet efficient temperature of 78°F (25-26°C) at home.

When you are doing this, remember that every degree lower setting causes your air conditioner to work ten times harder against the severe ambient heat. So, be cautious about how you approach it.

At this “sweet spot,” your air conditioner will run more efficiently, keeping your home more comfortable.

Use a smart thermostat.

You can save money on your energy expenses by using a smart thermostat or air conditioning controller. If your thermostat has a dial or little push buttons, turn it up.

Smart thermostats remember your schedule, automatically adjust settings based on the environment, and enable remote control using a phone app. That means no more cooling an empty house while you’re at work or doing errands.

Combining a smart thermostat with temperature zoning lets you chill only the room you’re currently in. You can say goodbye to hallway heatwaves and stop wasting energy on the guest room, which hasn’t been used in a while.

Insulate your windows

Your air conditioner isn’t only fighting the heat; it can also be fighting the home. Poor insulation and bare windows allow outdoor heat to creep in like an unwelcome intruder. To reduce solar entry, seal up drafts, increase attic insulation, and invest in blackout curtains or reflective window film.

Remember to close your blinds during peak sunlight hours in the summer. It’s a basic move that yields interesting outcomes and will save you a significant amount of money.

Make use of ceiling fans.

Ceiling fans may not have the glitzy reputation of a new innovative technology, but they are the old-school MVPs of air circulation. When used correctly, fans can make a room feel up to 4°F cooler, allowing you to adjust your thermostat a few degrees while maintaining comfort.

During the summer, make sure your ceiling fan spins counterclockwise. This pushes cool air downward, dispersing it throughout the space. When you leave the room, turn off the ceiling fans to cool the people, not the area. Leaving one on in an empty room is a waste of money, so don’t do it.

Be cautious of your timing.

The timing of your AC use is essential. Running your unit during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late evening, helps lessen demand on the electricity system. This can reduce energy costs, mainly if your utility company provides time-of-use pricing.

Avoid the habit of repeatedly turning your air conditioner on and off. Maintaining a consistent, moderate temperature is preferable to having your system catch up whenever the heat becomes unpleasant. Set it and forget (within reason).

This summer, your air conditioner won’t have to work alone. With the help of fans, technological updates, and careful behavior, you can stay cool and comfortable, conserve energy, and prevent your air conditioner from overheating.

Doing this also ensures that you don’t need to hire air conditioner repair services Ronkonkoma to fix your appliance.