While there was snow in the yard this morning, it won’t be long before we turn to cooling our homes instead of heating them. With that in mind, here are some tips to manage your air conditioner for best efficiency.
- Each degree above 75°F that you set your air conditioner’s thermostat saves you 3 percent of the energy used to cool your home.
- Check your air filter every month, especially during heavy use months. If your filter looks dirty, change it. At a minimum, change the filter every three months. A dirty filter slows down air flow and makes your system work harder to keep you more comfortable.
- When installing a window unit, make sure it fits tightly so that outside air does not get in.
- When you buy or replace an air conditioner, purchase an ENERGY STAR® certified central air conditioner to save energy and money. ENERGY STAR certified central air conditioners use 8 percent less energy than conventional new models.
- You can also consider replacing your air conditioner with newer, energy-efficient heating and cooling options, such as air-source heat pumps and ground-source heat pumps. These newer technologies help you significantly reduce your energy use.
- Consider installing a mini-split unit in your favorite room. This unit hangs on the wall and vents directly to the outside. It can provide heat or air conditioning.
- Air-conditioners can also be ductless, like this one that hangs on the wall and is camouflaged as a framed picture (you choose the picture or artwork) Cool!
