It never fails: Just when your wallet gets a break from heating costs, air conditioner season arrives. Thank goodness there are ways to cut those bills in the inexpensive and investment price ranges.
Wayne Duncan of Dunco Heating, Cooling and Plumbing suggests homeowners start by having their system checked. “Servicing your A/C each year can help maintain the efficiency and dependability of the unit. Regular filter changes can also help with fewer breakdowns.”
Duncan noted the average age of an air conditioner is about 15 years. A few clues that it could be at the end of its life would be if it trips the breaker or blows a fuse and if there is excessive noise from the outdoor compressor.
Some additional tips to keep inside air cool include:
- Ensure all the vents are open and clear of obstructions blocking airflow.
- Seal the joints in the ductwork with aluminum foil tape to keep cool air from leaking out.
- Keep your thermostat at 78 degrees when you’re home and 85 degrees when you’re gone. However, don’t turn off the system completely. It takes more energy to cool a hot house.
- Take care of the outside compressor. Duncan recommends making sure it’s clear of debris and only running the air conditioner when the outside temperature is above 70.
- Plant shade trees. Placed in the right spot—the south and west side of the home—they can cut cooling costs by 25 to 50 percent!
- Use ceiling or stand fans. The moving air allows the thermostat to be set at 78 degrees and still feel comfortable. Plus, the fan uses less energy than lowering the thermostat.
- Check the weather stripping around the windows and doors to ensure the seal is tight when closed.
- Close the curtains, shades or blinds when the sun shines through. Tinted or low-E window film applied directly onto the glass also helps. These steps can cut your costs by 2 to 7 percent.
- Avoid using the oven, which will make the air conditioner work overtime to keep the house cool. Instead, use the microwave or toaster oven, grill outside, or eat at your favorite restaurant.
To talk with Duncan about air conditioning options, visit DuncoHC.com.
“Servicing your A/C each year can help maintain the efficiency and dependability of the unit. Regular filter changes can also help with fewer breakdowns.”
Wayne Duncan of Dunco Heating, Cooling and Plumbing