Thursday, June 04, 2009

Central Air Conditioning Tips – Four Tips to Conserve and Stay Cool

Dusty air filter reduces airflow. Check your unit’s air filter once a month. Clean or replace filter when necessary.  Keeping filters clean can cut energy consumption 5 to 15%!

Install a programmable thermostat so you can vary the temperature according to when you're home. Set it to 78 degrees when you're home. If you'll be gone for more than a few hours, it makes sense to set the air conditioning at 85 degrees while you are gone. Each degree setting below 78F will increase your energy consumption by approximately 8%. As you can see that can add up to a lot of money. 

Don't leave the house and turn OFF the air conditioner. You can set the temperature up five to ten degrees but not OFF. This is because of latent heat buildup in the walls and furniture in the house and will make the air conditioner work harder to remove the heat and this takes a long time (which will run you your utility bills). 

Also flip the switch on the thermostat for the fan setting to FAN ON, not Auto. The constant air moving will keep you cooler. You can probably keep the thermostat a degree or two higher than normal and still feel comfortable. You will also maintain a more even temperature between upstairs and downstairs. This will SAVE you money because the outdoor condenser will not come on as much!

Need an expert for your air conditioning? Hire it Done with Adam Helfman at www.hireitdone.com

 

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