Now that summer has arrived and temperatures are rising, you may be using your air conditioner on a routine basis. Air conditioning is a great way to control indoor temperatures and keep your living space comfortable. However, despite the perks of an AC system, most units use a great deal of energy and can be costly to run all season long. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to make your air conditioning unit more cost- and energy-efficient.

Here are some expert tips for making the most of your AC this summer.

1. Invest in a Programmable Thermostat

There’s no reason to leave your air conditioning unit running all day if you aren’t home. Although doing so allows you to come home to a cool house each evening, it can also lead to unreasonably high energy bills. Luckily, you can save money and energy by investing in a programmable thermostat. This feature allows you to set your air conditioner to turn on a few minutes before you get home, so you can walk into a cool house without overspending.

2. Add Lubrication

If the motor in your AC unit lacks adequate lubrication, it may not run as efficiently as it should. It will need to work harder and use more energy just to maintain a comfortable temperature. You can prevent this from happening by adding a few drops of motor oil to your air conditioning unit. Review your owner’s manual to determine where you should add the oil and which type you should use.

3. Schedule Routine Maintenance

If you have an HVAC unit, schedule maintenance before the summer arrives. During each maintenance check, your HVAC technician will examine your unit and perform any necessary repairs. They will also clean your vents and air ducts to maintain healthy indoor air quality.

For more information on caring for your air conditioning unit, or to schedule maintenance and repairs, call Ronnie Ritchie Service Co in Waynesboro, VA, at (540) 942-1415. To learn more about their heating and cooling services, or for information on their plumbing services, visit their website today.