Keeping your home cool during the peak of summer can quickly increase your electric bills, especially with rising rates. Your bills will rise even further if your air conditioner is not working efficiently.
Fortunately, there are innovative and effective ways to boost your cooling unit’s efficiency, helping keep your bills lower. The key to better performance lies in scheduling professional maintenance. M&S Air Conditioning in Leesburg, FL, wants to help you understand the importance of annual AC tune-ups.
This guide offers practical tips to help you save money while staying comfortable this summer.
Why Air Conditioner Efficiency Matters
Air conditioning accounts for a significant portion of electricity costs, and these costs can rise even higher in hot and humid climates like Florida’s. If your system works harder than necessary due to a lack of maintenance, it will consume more energy and wear out more quickly.
Focusing on improving your AC efficiency offers the following benefits:
- Lowered electricity costs
- Improved comfort
- Extended system life span
- Reduced carbon footprint
- Reduced repair expenses
Efficiency upgrades do not always require significant investments. We can help you make minor adjustments that dramatically improve your system’s performance.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
Schedule professional maintenance to boost your air conditioner’s performance. Our HVAC technicians possess the knowledge and tools to optimize system performance and identify minor issues before they escalate into significant problems.
During these appointments, we perform the following:
- Coil inspection and cleaning
- Refrigerant level and pressure testing
- Thermostat testing and calibration
- Electrical connection tightening
- Moving parts lubrication
- Condensate drain line cleaning
- Airflow and fan motor testing
- Wear and tear inspections
We recommend scheduling an AC tune-up in early spring before temperatures rise into the 90s in Leesburg. Systems that receive annual maintenance will last significantly longer and experience fewer breakdowns.
Replace or Clean Filters Regularly
Dirty air filters are a common and avoidable cause of system breakdowns. Clogged filters cause your cooling system to struggle to pull in air. Consequently, reducing the airflow forces your air conditioner to work much harder. We recommend checking your filter every 30 days during the summer. You should replace or clean your filter every 30 to 90 days.
You may want to consider more frequent changes if you have pets or family members with allergies. We can recommend the best high-efficiency filter for your system.
Seal Ductwork and Insulate Properly
The most powerfully efficient air conditioner cannot perform at its best with ductwork leaks. Cracks, gaps, and unsealed joints force your air conditioner to run longer to achieve the set temperature.
We conduct professional duct inspections to identify signs of damage. According to the EPA, sealing and reinforcing damaged or vulnerable areas can increase system efficiency by up to 30%.
In addition to sealing the ductwork, ensure your attic has proper insulation. Select insulation with the correct R-value to prevent heat from seeping into your home, thereby negating your system’s cooling efforts.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats work with most modern air conditioners. They enable you to gain more precise control over your air conditioner. These devices automatically adjust AC settings based on your habits and preferences, learning them over time. They can help you maintain a cool environment when needed and reduce wasted energy.
We can help you select the right smart thermostat for your system. Allow us to help you set up schedules, integrate the thermostat with your phone, and analyze your energy usage. Additionally, we can teach you how to use remote access to alert you of unusual system activity.
The EPA estimates homeowners can save up to 8% on their cooling costs by installing a smart thermostat. Most who upgrade see a noticeable difference within a few weeks.
Clean the Outdoor Condenser Unit
The condenser is a significant part of your air conditioner. Its exposure to the elements puts it at risk of damage. Over time, the condenser can become clogged with leaves, grass clippings, dirt, and twigs. Clogged condensers cannot release heat properly. Your system will work harder, resulting in higher electricity costs.
We recommend ensuring 2 feet of clearance around all sides of your outdoor unit. Remove debris from the fins and grille on a regular basis. You should especially check your unit after storms. Schedule an annual AC tune-up for further cleaning.
Never attempt to open your condenser unit, and refrain from spraying it with a hose. Our technicians use the appropriate tools and cleaning methods to keep your coils clean and functioning efficiently.
Check Refrigerant Levels and Repair Leaks
Your air conditioner cannot transfer heat correctly without ample refrigerant. If the levels drop, your AC will struggle to cool. You may even notice that your AC freezes due to lowered coolant levels.
Only certified professionals are authorized to handle refrigerants safely. We perform the following during a maintenance appointment:
- Refrigerant level and pressure checks
- Leak identification and repairs
- Optimal system recharge
- Compliance with EPA standards
Running your air conditioner with low refrigerant wastes energy and can significantly damage your compressor. Compressors are expensive to repair, so it’s best to avoid this issue. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, shut your AC down and wait for repairs.
Improve Indoor Airflow
Proper airflow means your air conditioner delivers cool air to every room in your home. Poor air circulation can cause some rooms to stay warmer than others. Your air conditioner can experience frequent cycling, leading to wasted energy.
Check your supply and return vents to ensure there are no blockages that could impede airflow. Additionally, you can use ceiling fans to distribute air more effectively. Keep your doors open during the day to encourage better airflow.
If you notice problems with weakened airflow, we can check your blower motor and ductwork. Making damper adjustments or performing necessary repairs can increase airflow and enhance performance.
Shade Your Windows and Outdoor Unit
Too much direct sunlight can heat your home and strain your air conditioner. Reducing solar heat and creating strategic shade can help your air conditioner operate more efficiently.
Consider installing blackout curtains to help keep the sun’s light out. You can also install awnings or reflective films to help keep your windows shaded from the sun’s heat. Depending on your home, landscaping elements, such as trees and shrubbery, can offer welcome cooling relief.
Invest in Annual Maintenance Plans
Your air conditioner requires professional maintenance, and your manufacturer’s warranty may stipulate it for warranty compliance. Although a one-time AC tune-up helps, a regular system maintenance schedule is essential for optimal protection.
Enrolling in a professional maintenance plan with M&S Air Conditioning offers many advantages:
- Scheduled seasonal inspections
- Priority service during emergencies
- Discounts on repairs and replacements
- Detailed reports on system performance
Enrolling in a maintenance plan helps you avoid forgetting these integral services. Additionally, our technicians become familiar with your system over time, resulting in improved services and faster diagnostics.
Maximizing AC efficiency lowers your electricity costs and enhances your comfort. We can help you save money and avoid midsummer breakdowns that can lead to big headaches.
M&S Air Conditioning is a full-service HVAC company offering installation, maintenance, and repairs. We provide 24/7 emergency repairs and ductwork services. Contact our trusted HVAC technicians at M&S Air Conditioning to schedule an AC tune-up in Leesburg.
