A quality air conditioner is essential for keeping your home comfortable throughout the summer, especially in the South. Though you might be bracing yourself for higher utility bills, there are some factors around your home that can impact how efficiently your system is able to operate. These small adjustments are simple and can help you lower your energy bills and prolong the life of your system. Try the following to see results during the coming heat waves.

3 Tips for Improving Air Conditioner Efficiency

1. Use Fans

Fans use significantly less energy than HVAC units and make a room feel a few degrees cooler. They don’t actually impact the temperature, but they can certainly improve comfort by increasing air circulation on a hot, stuffy day. When running ceiling fans, make sure they’re set to run counterclockwise so they move all the warm air up to the ceiling.

2. Keep Shades Closed

When sunlight gets into your home, it naturally raises the temperature. There may be some times when you want to enjoy the natural light in your space, but don’t let the sun stream in when you’re out of the house or not using a particular room. Close the shades or blinds—and for the ultimate protection, invest in blackout curtains to block as many rays as possible.

3. Seal Drafts Around Doors & Windows

If all the cool air coming from your air conditioner is able to escape out of your home, it has to work really hard to keep up. Of course, you should keep doors and windows closed whenever you’re running your AC, but also check for drafts around those areas and seal them with caulk. Even seemingly small holes or cracks can let a fair amount of air out of your home.

Regular maintenance is also essential for keeping your air conditioner running efficiently. The professionals at Walker Electric in Andalusia, AL, provide a wide array of heating and cooling services, including installations and repairs. They even offer energy audits for homeowners looking to improve energy efficiency. The electrical and HVAC contractor is trained to work with a variety of equipment, including gas furnaces, heat pumps, and air conditioning units. You can request service online or call (334) 222-2481 for immediate assistance.