Air conditioners consume more than 5% of the total electricity produced in the United States annually. This amounts to billions in energy bills for homeowners. Most of us have high energy bills instead of air conditioning costs, particularly during the hot season. The great news is that you can change this by using a few simple techniques. These tried-and-true tips can help you save energy and money on air conditioning.

Block Sunlight to Keep Costs Down

Air conditioners have numerous moving parts that must all be in working order for the system to function correctly. The compressor, which circulates the refrigerant in the system, is one of the most important components. If the compressor fails, the whole air conditioner must be replaced.

The good news is that you can do a few things to help your air conditioner last longer and avoid the need for repairs. One of the most effective things you can do is to prevent sunlight from entering your home. Sunlight warms the air inside your home, making it more difficult for your air conditioner to keep you cool. Blocking out the sun can help reduce AC costs and keep your air conditioner running smoothly for years.

Consider Storm Windows

Air leakage is a significant contributor to high air-conditioning costs. The more effectively you air-seal your home, the less energy your air conditioner needs to cool the insides. Installing storm windows is an excellent way to reduce air leakage. Interior and exterior storm windows are available. There are also storm windows with a low-e coating on the market. These types of windows are effective at reflecting heat, preventing heat from entering your home.

Repair Any Air Leaks

Air leaks are a major source of increased energy costs. The cooler air from inside your home escapes through these leaks. As a result, the air conditioner must expend more energy. Sealing air leaks in your home’s walls, windows, doors, and other components is a quick and easy fix. This can be accomplished with simple materials such as caulk and tools such as caulking guns. Caulk seals the cracks effectively. When done correctly, it can result in 10% to 20% energy savings.

Routine Maintenance Is Vital

It is critical to service and maintain your air conditioner regularly. Cleaning clogged AC filters, for example, can significantly reduce air-conditioning costs. Regular air conditioner maintenance also ensures that repairs are made on time. These cut down on long-term maintenance costs.

Do You Need to Upgrade Your Air Conditioner?

Sometimes your energy bills are high because your air conditioner needs to be replaced. For a variety of reasons, an upgrade may be required. For example, if your air conditioner frequently fails and requires repairs, it’s a sign that it’s time to replace it. Similarly, if the AC is not sufficiently cooling the indoor space, you may require a larger capacity AC. Higher energy bills indicate that the air conditioner needs to be upgraded or replaced. If you’d like to learn more about AC installation in DeBary, FL, contact the professionals at Mid-Florida Air. They can assist you with repairs and replacements, as well as provide advice on energy-saving practices.

David Jones