When was the last time you checked your air conditioner? Did you know that if it’s poorly maintained it could be sucking your wallet dry by driving your energy bill through the roof?
All it needs is a little TLC and Deborah Snoonian of This Old House has some simple maintenance tips that can help you save a bundle.
First let's first talk filters.
“If you air conditioning doesn't seem to be cold enough, first thing you should do is check the filter,” said Snoonian. “A dirty filter really ruins the efficiency of it. So if you clean or change the filter it can help the system run more efficiently and it will save you money over the course of the year.”
After that you need to check your system for leaks. Experts say you can lose 30 percent of your cool air flow through leaks. So light a stick of incense. If you have a central system, run it along the seams in the ducts and watch the smoke. If it catches a draft, you have a leak. You can plug it with foil tape or duct mastic. On a window unit, run the incense along the edge where it meets the wall or window. If you see a leak, plug it with some foam.
If you have central air, you should also check your compressor outside. Trim the grass near it and make sure there is 24 inches of clear space around it to prevent it from getting clogged.
When was the last time you checked your air conditioner? Did you know that if it’s poorly maintained it could be sucking your wallet dry by driving your energy bill through the roof? Jill Scott reports.
Also, check your home's insulation.
“Insulation isn't just for your heating system. It can also keep cool air cool,” said Snoonian. “So if you have duct work, especially in an attic or an area that gets really hot, make sure to wrap it with insulation. You can use any kind. You can use rigid foam insulation, you can use bat insulation, which is that pink fluffy stuff that we all know, and it will really help reduce your energy bill this summer.”
Also, put your AC on a programmable thermostat, so it’s not on full blast when it doesn't need to be, and keep air flow in mind.
“Air flow throughout the house is really important if you have a central AC system, so you should leave the door cracked and not shut off any rooms when you are running a central AC, because that can cause the system to go out of balance and for the cooling to be uneven,” said Snoonian. “Now, on the other hand if you have a window AC unit and you want to keep a particular room cold, like your bedroom you do want to shut the door to keep the air flow in there.”
For more tips check out the current issue of This Old House, because taking care of your AC will help cool your home and your rising energy bill.