Keeping your AC Energy Efficient this Spring

You can save energy dollars by following these simple tips. Many of them are common sense suggestions that require no tools or out of pocket expense.
Over time, you will see your energy efficiency increase and your energy savings multiply.

Clean or replace filters at least once a month
Dirty filters make your system work harder and run longer than necessary
They also encourage the buildup of mold and mildew, making cleaning more difficult

Shade outside air conditioning units
A/C units shaded by trees or other means work more efficiently and use up to 10% less electricity
Clean your AC’s condenser/evaporator coils at the beginning of the season
Clean coils lower your energy costs, extend the unit’s life and provide cleaner air for you to breathe
The fin coils on the outside AC unit can be washed with a hose
Coils on inside units may be difficult to get to and may require a trained technician
Keep debris and high grass away from the condenser
These obstacles block the airflow to the unit
Blockage makes the condenser work harder and run longer

Set your thermostat at 78 in the summer and 68 in the winter
Each degree cooler or warmer will increase your energy use by 6 to 8%. For instance, setting your thermostat at 72 in the summer could increase energy use by up to 40%
One of the best ways to save energy dollars is to use less air conditioning and heating
If you have central air conditioning, do not close vents in unused rooms
This could increase pressure and cause leaks in your ducts
This does not apply to homes or apartments with window units where closing off unused rooms will reduce cooling costs and increase comfort
Consider new high efficiency air conditioners and heat pumps
They use up to 40% less electricity than older models for the same amount of running time