Your air conditioner works hard all summer long, but it shouldn’t be working harder than it needs to get the job done. An air conditioner that works overtime also works less efficiently, reduces its own life and causes your energy bills to spike. It’s instinctual to lower the temperature inside as the temperature rises outside, but you must be aware of how much energy this uses and how you can save energy while staying as cool as possible. Fortunately, there are ways to ensure your air conditioning system provides the coldest air without working too hard.

Maintain the Temperature Inside Your Home

Maintaining a consistent temperature in your home is vital to saving energy and protecting your air conditioner from over exertion. It may seem that putting the temperature much higher when you’re out saves energy, but a warmer home causes an A/C system to work longer and harder to cool it down again. Instead, use a programmable thermostat and set the temperature to be slightly higher while you’re out. Additionally, a good tip for maintaining a consistent temperature during the summer is to reduce the use of heat-producing appliances throughout the day, such as the microwave and the stove.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat allows your A/C to run more efficiently, and gives you the power to control the temperature in your home better. You can raise the temperature slightly higher at night or when you’re out, and lower it during warmer days or certain times of the day. Just remember to always keep the adjusted temperature within five degrees of the normal temperature setting. This will minimize the amount of energy your air conditioner uses to lower the temperature when needed.

Change the Filter Regularly

Ideally filters should be changed at least four times a year, but standard filters should be changed every 30 days. Dirty or clogged filters will cause your air conditioning system to work harder to cool your home, put strain on your equipment and put your mechanical components at risk. They can also reduce your system’s airflow and the output of cool air into your home.

Get Annual Maintenance

You can increase the efficiency and longevity of your A/C by scheduling annual air conditioner maintenance. Routine maintenance should be performed on your system every spring by a professional service like Gibbon Heating and Cooling. This maintenance will greatly reduce the risk of system malfunctioning and possible breakdowns.