Air conditioning usually accounts for around 12% of your home’s annual energy usage. In the summer months, that number can be up to 70% or more. No matter whether you’re a renter or a homeowner, everyone can benefit from a more efficient air conditioner. On top of keeping you more comfortable, making your air conditioner more efficient will also help lower your utility costs!

Before we get into the details on how you can improve your air conditioner efficiency, here are some of the warning signs that your system isn’t running as well as it should.

 

Signs Your Air Conditioner Isn’t Working As It Should

Increased Costs and Reduced Effectiveness

The most obvious sign that your air conditioner isn’t working efficiently is a higher utility bill. If your air conditioning system isn’t running efficiently, it will require more energy. Lower efficiency also means less effective cooling. That means your system is running longer and raising your power bill, all while failing to keep your home cool.

If you notice a sudden jump in usage, schedule an air conditioning inspection. Usually, a sudden hike in usage and utility costs can indicate a bigger problem with your system that needs to be addressed.

Ice on Air Conditioner Unit

Ice buildup on your air conditioner is a sure sign that your system isn’t working as efficiently as it should. The formation of ice can be caused by several things, including; refrigerant leaks, damaged coils, dirty coils or filters, or incorrectly charged coils. There are several different reasons why you might be seeing ice forming on your air conditioner, and the only way to have the problem diagnosed and fixed is to call in the professionals.

Air Conditioner Turning On and Off

If you notice that your air conditioning system is frequently cycling on and off, there may be an issue with your thermostat. The thermostat controls your heating and cooling system, so inaccurate readings, faulty connections, or other problems can cause it to turn your system on and off.

Power cycling can also indicate problems with the air conditioner compressor. Just like all of the other issues mentioned above, the best and easiest way to find your problem and fix it is to call a professional HVAC specialist for an inspection.

 

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Now that you know the signs of A/C inefficiency, here’s what you can do to keep your system running more efficiently and effectively.

3 Ways to Improve Air Conditioner Performance

1. Unblock and Clean Your Air Vents

Keep your vents clear from any blockages. This is crucial to making sure that your air conditioning system can perform well. If you need to rearrange the furniture in a room to make sure a vent isn’t covered, do it! Without proper airflow, your system just won’t work as well as it should.

Vacuum the vent covers to remove any pet hair, debris, and dust. If you notice that your ductwork is dirty or clogged, schedule a maintenance appointment. You may be tempted to try and vacuum out the ducts yourself, but if the ducts get damaged while you’re cleaning, then you’ll need a professional repair job.

2. Close Windows and Doors, and Fix Any Leaks or Drafts

Do you have memories of running out the door in the summertime, just for your parents or grandparents to call after you to come back and close the door? They were right to call after you! If you leave windows and doors open, you really are letting the cool air out. When your windows or doors open constantly, it can lower your AC efficiency substantially. If you need to air out your home, just make sure to turn off your air conditioning first.

Leaky windows and doors are other contributors to a less efficient AC system. If your home has drafty windows or doors, invest in weather stripping or replace the fixtures to create a weatherproof seal. This will stop air from leaking out, both in the summer and in the winter.

3. Schedule Regular Preventative Maintenance

The best thing you can do to improve your AC efficiency is to have regular preventative maintenance performed. A professional HVAC technician will ensure everything in your system is working, and working well. Routine maintenance appointments include vital HVAC care including changing filters, inspecting ductwork, ensuring drainage, and more. This kind of regular upkeep will have your system running better, and for longer!

 

 

Texas Ace Heating and Air Cares

Looking for more information or tips about HVAC care? Check out our other HVAC blogs!

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If you’re looking for ways to keep your home comfortable no matter what the weather has in store, we’ve got a blog post to help! View the full Texas Ace Heating and Air blog.