With the conflict in the East, oil prices have been a source of concern for many Americans, especially this summer. One of the most used pieces of equipment at home during this time of year is your air conditioner, which can easily consume about half of your total energy allowance.
If you’re looking for ways to lower your energy consumption, specifically in terms of your AC operation, you have come to the right place. In this article, Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning—your leading HVAC company in Eden Prairie MN — will give you a few practical tips for you to consider.
Let the unit rest at night.
Nights are naturally cooler, giving you the option to shut down the air conditioning and open windows. This way, you can let the cool breeze cool your home. If the nighttime air coming from the outside cools your home to lower than your typical thermostat settings, turning off the AC should be a good energy-saving decision. That being said, if the outdoor air is too humid and the moisture comes inside, it will cause your AC to have a harder time removing the excess moisture from the outdoor air.
Keep your doors closed and devices turned off.
Shutting the door is a must when it comes to running an air conditioner. But also make sure that all your windows are sealed off, so the cold air doesn’t leave the room. Pull the curtains to avoid the sun’s heat from entering your room.
Also, power-hungry electronic devices like your refrigerator, TV, and dryer generate a lot of heat and make your AC work harder. So, switch them off before you start the AC. Let the room reach your desired temperature first, then you can switch them back on.
Use your thermostat wisely.
Since nighttimes are usually cooler, you don’t need the same cooling setting as you would during the day. Therefore, program your AC to a higher temperature during your hours of sleep, or if your unit is equipped with a “sleep mode,” use that function to lower the AC output and save energy.
Moreover, setting the temperature around 78 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit will immediately help lower your energy costs. You can also cut an additional 6 to 8 percent off of your cooling costs for every degree above 78. This tip enables you to remain comfortable while saving money at the same time. If you’re going to be on an extended trip, try setting the temperature even higher or go ahead and turn it off altogether.
Use a smart thermostat.
Not only are smart devices known for their intensive features offering great comfort and convenience, but also in terms of energy savings. Smart HVAC systems deliver energy savings with automation, limiting wasted energy and maintaining a comfortable environment at a low temperature.
Smart AC controllers allow you to set intelligent triggers. Once the temperature reaches a specified range, the AC receives a trigger and slows down accordingly. If you go out for an extended period and forget to turn your AC off, you don’t have to worry. The smart thermostat’s geolocation feature turns off the AC once you leave the house.
Investing in a smart thermostat ensures constant temperature throughout the day while keeping your bills low, making it the first step if you’re wondering how to save money while keeping your home a comfortable abode.
Invest in professional AC maintenance.
If you’re looking for the most effective way to increase your AC’s energy efficiency, it’s none other than having it maintained based on the manufacturer’s standards. That’s where Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning comes in. As a preferred Chanhassen AC repair and maintenance company for over 40 years, we have gained the necessary knowledge and experience to take care of your AC the right way. Our teams of AC experts are also duly trained and certified to keep cooling systems in tip-top shape. There are maintenance steps that require professional knowledge and expertise, and our guys are more than capable of delivering. So, if you want to trim your AC operational costs, be sure to give us a call and let our qualified AC professionals give your cooling system the care it deserves.