How to get the most out of your AC

furnace is tripping

It’s not difficult to get the most out of AC unit, but it’s really easy to forget to take care of it. When we put off taking care of AC, then we can wind down a very expensive road.

These days it’s even more important as air conditioning systems as a staple in most American households to keep cool during heat waves, especially in regions with hot and humid summers. The United States, with its diverse and warming climate patterns, often experiences scorching temperatures during the summer seasons. As a result, it makes sense for air conditioning to gain immense popularity, offering relief from the heat wave and creating a comfortable indoor environment. 

However, with the rising concern ro energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, it has become essential to use your A/C system wisely in order to keep your home cool without breaking the bank. So, if you are going to install a new air conditioner, you need tips to maximize the value of your air conditioning system without driving your costs any higher. We’re here to help. 

Unsplash – CC0 license

Install quality insulation in your home

One of the most effective ways to optimize your air conditioning system is by investing in quality insulation for your home. Many homes, especially older ones, may not have sufficient insulation, leading to significant energy losses and decreased cooling efficiency.

Indeed, proper insulation will ensure that the cool air produced by your A/C unit stays inside. Ineffective insulation, on the other hand, will lead to losing coolness through cracks and gaps. It will also let the hot outdoors air through, which is even more counterproductive!

The good news is that you can proceed to your DIY insulation installation yourself as long as you understand how to plan it safely. 

How to remodel a basement
insulation
get most of our AC
When changing framing to solve a job site condition—like needing more room—think about down stream things like insulation and wiring.

Replace A/C filters regularly

Air conditioning systems rely on filters to trap dust, allergens and pollutants from the air. Over time, of course, these filters can become clogged, which can abstract the airflow and cause your A/C unit malfunction. Reduced airflow not only decreases cooling efficiency, but it also puts additional strain on the system’s components, potentially leading to costly repairs. Besides, the unit is more likely to release dust into the home rather than retain it in the filter. 

So, in order to maximize the efficiency of your air conditioning system, you need to prioritize filter replacement. As a rule of thumb, aim to replace your filters every 1 to 3 months depending on your indoor air quality and the type of filter you are using. When purchasing replacement filters, make sure to choose high quality filters with a higher MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value), as these can capture smaller particles. 

Lysol's Allergy and Pet-Friendly Furnace Filters make dust and dander mites less dander-ous. get most out of AC
Lysol’s Allergy-Friendly Furnace Filters.

Service it regularly

Regular maintenance is vital to ensure that your air conditioning system operates at its peak performance. This is a task you want to entrust to a professional HVAC technician who is trained and equipped to inspect and monitor your unit. Ideally, you should schedule servicing before the summer season. 

A well-maintained a/c system performs better and for longer. You are more likely to save money on repair costs or premature replacement. Besides, servicing your unit will also help identify potential issues before they escalate. This means it is the safest way to keep repair costs to a minimum. 

As air conditioning systems are an indispensable part of modern life, homeowners can’t afford to skip these smart strategies that enhance the value of your investment. Staying cooler without breaking the bank should be part of a summer priority every year.

furnace is tripping
get most out of AC
If your furnace is tripping, it’s not a gag. The fix could be a few dollars. Or more than a few thousand.

About the Author

Theresa Clement, MyFixitUpLife
Theresa Clement, MyFixitUpLife Designer, is an artist, upcycler, certified color expert, Certified Aging-in-Place specialist, and yoga devotee.

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