Keeping your home cool year-round can get expensive, especially if you're blasting the air conditioner 24/7. According to a recent study by the Energy Information Administration, 12% of home energy costs were attributed to air conditioning. However, there are ways to maximize the energy efficiency of your AC unit that let you stay comfortable without sending your utility bills through the roof. Follow these top tips to make the most of your AC system.

Schedule Regular AC Services

The best way to keep your AC operating efficiently is to schedule regular AC services. Our experts recommend getting a tune-up at least once a year, preferably before the peak cooling season starts. During a tune-up, a technician will inspect your entire system, clean the coils, check for leaks, lubricate moving parts, and make any necessary repairs. They can spot minor issues before they turn into major problems. A well-maintained unit uses less electricity and provides better cooling.

In addition to yearly tune-ups, you should also get your AC serviced for issues like reduced airflow, unusual noises, or spikes in your electric bills. Don't neglect smaller problems that pop up with your HVAC system, as they can grow into larger issues over time. Minor repairs can prevent costly breakdowns down the road. Working with an experienced technician ensures that these issues get properly diagnosed and fixed.

Check and Change Air Filters

Air filters play a critical role in your AC system's efficiency. As air circulates through the ductwork, your filters capture dust, dirt, pollen, and other particles before they build up in the indoor coil. When filters get clogged with debris, airflow is restricted, forcing your system to work harder to keep up. This leads to higher energy consumption and strain on the equipment.

According to This Old House, a renowned home enthusiast brand, most filters need to be replaced every one to three months during peak usage seasons. If it looks dirty, a new one is necessary. Remember to consult an expert AC service for filter replacements. A professional can help you make sure you get the right size and type of filter for your specific AC model.

Seal Air Leaks

Air leaks can sabotage your AC system's efficiency. When cool air escapes through cracks and openings, warm outdoor air seeps into your home. This forces your AC to work nonstop until it reaches the desired temperature. Hiring a heating and cooling expert to seal leaks will make your home less drafty and easier to keep cool. To do your part, make sure you shut your doors and windows properly.

Invest in a Modern AC Unit

Being smart about how you set your programmable thermostat can yield big energy savings. Setting your home's temperature to the wrong setting can cause you to repeatedly adjust it, which will affect your heating and cooling expenses. Speak with a dependable AC service to have a modern air conditioning unit installed. According to our experts, the higher the SEER rating, the more money you'll save in the long run from more efficient cooling.

Wisely Utilize Fans

Ceiling fans circulate and ventilate air without actively cooling it as AC systems do. Ceiling fans make rooms feel several degrees cooler by creating a wind chill effect. By running fans along with your AC, you can even out your home's temperatures and allow your heating and cooling system to run less often.

Place floor or table fans near open windows to pull in fresh breezes at night when it cools down outside. Furthermore, bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans vent out heat and humidity. You'll find this additional strategy to be beneficial for your quality of life as well.

By following these air conditioning tips, you can stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter while keeping your energy bills under control. Simple maintenance and smart usage go a long way toward maximizing your property's energy efficiency. If it's been a year or longer since your last AC service, now is the time to schedule maintenance services to ensure your unit is operating as it should. Call Joe East One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning today to book an appointment. We look forward to speaking with you and providing you with more information about our maintenance program, residential HVAC work, and installation services!