Cleaning Your HVAC System

Posted on: 15 June 2015

If you use air conditioning in the summertime to help keep your home cool, you may notice a substantial increase in your electricity bill during the months you rely on it. There are several ways to maximize the efficiency of your air conditioning so you can still enjoy the cool air without spending top dollar to be comfortable. Here are some tips to give a try.

Perform Routine Maintenance

Taking care of your air conditioning unit yearly will make a difference in the performance it provides. If you are not seasoned on the steps needed to do yearly maintenance, call a HVAC service (such as Cape Fear Air Conditioning & Heating Co., Inc.) to give your unit an annual check. Some of the steps that will maximize efficiency include cleaning out the entire unit and condenser and putting in a new filter. The air conditioner would then run without obstruction from dirt build-up, allowing it to cool the air quicker and without as much frequency.

Check For Leakage

There are many places around the home where air can leak out, causing you to need to use your air conditioner longer to maintain your desired temperature. Check around windows and doors for areas with gaps. This is easily checked by placing a lit incense stick or candle a few inches from the opening. Slowly move the stick or candle around the perimeter while looking for flickering in the smoke or flame. If that is noticed, that spot needs caulk or weather-stripping to block out the airflow.

Change Your Habits

The appliances you use within your home emit heat each time they run. To maximize the efficiency of your air conditioning, limit the usage of these appliances to night-time hours when the weather is cooler. Try not to use appliances that give off a lot of heat at all, if possible. Dry your clothing on racks instead of using a dryer. Wash your dishes by hand on hot days. Make salads and sandwiches or fire up the grill instead of making meals in your stove.

Limit Usage Overall

Rooms that are not being used do not need to be cooled down. Shut any vents in these rooms and close the doors so the cool air is directed only toward rooms where it is needed. Try turning your thermostat up one degree so that the air conditioning doesn't come on as quickly. During night-time hours, open doors and windows to let in cool air and then close them in the early morning before it gets hot out again.

Cover Glass Panes

Glass allows heat and cool air to escape, making it make sense to cover windows when you are using heat or air conditioning in your home. Put up thermal-lined curtains or drapes to help keep your air conditioning inside. For added air conditioning retention, place shrinkable film on each glass pane on the windows of your home. This is easily applied by peeling and sticking in place and then using a hair dryer to adhere.