02 Apr How to Lower Energy Costs of Your Air Conditioner
Air conditioning is essential in San Antonio, where summers can be scorching. However, keeping your home cool can lead to higher energy bills, especially if your system isn’t running efficiently. Your HVAC system accounts for up to 40% of your energy consumption, but there are ways to cut costs without sacrificing comfort. Whether through regular maintenance, smart technology, or small home improvements, here are some expert tips to lower the energy costs of your air conditioner.
1. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat helps you save on cooling costs by automatically adjusting the temperature based on your schedule and preferences. You can program it to raise the temperature while you’re away and cool down your home before you return, preventing unnecessary energy waste.
Installing a smart thermostat can reduce cooling costs by up to 8% annually. Many models even provide energy usage reports, helping you track and adjust your consumption habits.
2. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
Even the best AC system will lose efficiency over time, especially without routine maintenance. A poorly maintained system has to work harder, leading to higher energy bills. By scheduling seasonal AC maintenance, you can ensure your system is running at peak performance.
A professional tune-up includes:
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Cleaning the coils and blower components
- Inspecting ductwork for leaks
- Testing thermostat accuracy
Routine maintenance can reduce HVAC-related energy costs by 5%-40%. Our technicians at Gabe’s Priority AC Service can help ensure your system stays in top shape.
3. Change Your Air Filter Regularly
A dirty air filter restricts airflow, making your AC work harder and consume more energy. This simple fix can improve efficiency and extend the lifespan of your system.
How often should you change your AC filter?
- Every 90 days for standard households
- Every 60 days if you have pets
- Every 30 days during peak summer months
Replacing your filter is a quick DIY task that can make a big difference in energy consumption.
4. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient AC System
If your AC is over 10 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. New Energy Star-rated systems are significantly more efficient than older models, leading to major energy savings.
Look for an AC unit with:
- A SEER rating of 14 or higher
- Variable-speed technology for better efficiency
- A high EER rating for improved performance in hot climates
Upgrading to a high-efficiency system could save you up to $700 per year in cooling costs. Talk to our team to find out if a system upgrade is right for you.
5. Seal and Insulate Your Ductwork
Leaky ductwork can cause up to 30% of cooled air to escape before it even reaches your living space. This forces your AC to work harder and increases energy waste.
How to improve duct efficiency:
- Seal gaps with mastic sealant or metal tape
- Insulate ducts in hot areas like attics or garages
- Schedule a professional inspection to detect leaks
By ensuring your ductwork is properly sealed, you can boost efficiency and lower cooling costs.
6. Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clean
Your outdoor condenser unit needs proper airflow to function efficiently. Over time, dirt, leaves, and debris can clog the system, making it work harder to release heat.
How to keep it clean:
- Trim plants and bushes at least 2 feet away from the unit
- Remove leaves and debris regularly
- Hose down the coils to remove dust buildup
A clean condenser improves efficiency and helps lower your energy costs.
7. Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Air
Ceiling fans don’t cool the air, but they help distribute conditioned air more effectively. This allows you to raise your thermostat by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort, leading to energy savings of up to 10%.
During summer, set your ceiling fan to rotate counterclockwise to push cool air downward.
8. Close Curtains and Blinds During the Day
Sunlight streaming through windows can heat up your home, forcing your AC to work harder. Using curtains, blinds, or reflective window films can significantly reduce indoor temperatures and lower cooling costs.
For extra efficiency, consider thermal or blackout curtains, which block heat even more effectively.
Stay Cool and Save Money with Gabe’s Priority AC Service
Lowering your AC energy costs doesn’t require major renovations—small changes and routine maintenance can lead to significant savings. If you’re ready to improve your AC’s efficiency, contact Gabe’s Priority AC Service today for expert HVAC maintenance, repairs, and installations.