Are you feeling the heat? With average highs in the 90s already for many Texas cities, you don’t want to spend the next several months running an energy-inefficient air conditioner. Here are 8 tips from Houston energy providers to help you maximize your air conditioner’s efficiency and keep your home cool — without breaking the bank.
#1. Keep your air conditioner clean
A clean air conditioner works more efficiently. Dust and debris can clog your AC’s air filters, which makes your unit work harder than needed to keep you cool. Clean or replace filters regularly to make sure you’re getting the most out of your AC.
Also, Direct Energy recommends to clear debris (like leaves and branches) from around your outdoor air conditioning unit, and don’t block inside vents.
#2. Change air filters regularly
A dirty air filter can reduce air flow and make your air conditioner work overtime. Changing air filters regularly will help improve your AC’s efficiency, states Reliant Energy. Tip: Set a recurring event on your calendar so you don’t forget!
#3. Use curtains, shades, or blinds to keep heat out
Sun shining directly into windows can heat up a room quickly and force your AC to work harder. Closing your curtains, shades, or blinds helps keep that heat out and takes some stress off your air conditioner.
If you need that bright light, though, Cirro Energy recommends tilting blinds upward to redirect the light toward the ceiling. Because heat rises, it will at least be directed upward while you enjoy cooler air below.
#4. Seal costly air leaks
While keeping heat outside helps your air conditioner be more efficient, keeping that cool air inside is just as important. Make sure you’re not making your AC work harder than it needs to by sealing leaks around windows and doors, Green Mountain Energy and other Houston energy providers suggest.
#5. Avoid using heat-producing appliances
Ovens, stoves, and clothes dryers generate heat in your home, which can make your AC work extra hard to keep you cool. Try to use these appliances at night, reminds Cirro Energy — or avoid them completely by grilling outdoors and line-drying clothes.
#6. Be strategic with your thermostat settings
For every degree below 78° F you lower your thermostat, you’ll see a 5%-7% increase in your cooling costs, advises Discount Power.
That means letting your air conditioner run at the same, cool temperature all day can result in a high energy bill (and unneeded extra wear). Raise the thermostat a few degrees when you’re away, and let it rest at night.
You can also use a programmable or smart thermostat to set an automatic schedule that aligns with yours.
#7. Schedule an AC checkup
Keep your air conditioner running efficiently by scheduling regular AC checkups with an HVAC technician, suggests Reliant Energy. With cleaned coils, correct refrigerant levels, and repairs completed as needed, your AC unit will be ready for the long summer ahead.
#8. Consider an upgrade
If you have an old and inefficient air conditioner, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to upgrade to a newer, more energy-efficient model.
When shopping for a new air conditioner, Direct Energy recommends you look for a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and make sure you get the correctly sized unit for your home.
Find Texas electric companies — including Houston energy providers — and plans that meet your needs.
By following these simple tips from energy providers in Houston, you can keep your home cool all summer long while maximizing your air conditioner’s efficiency — and potentially save money on your energy bills, too!
Another way to help you save? Find an electricity plan that fits your home, your family, and your lifestyle to a T. Start shopping today with Everything Energy.