Heating and cooling bills often dominate a household’s total utility expenses, with air conditioning driving up costs in hot months. During warm weather, using air conditioning can drive up costs and take money away from other things. This makes it essential to do what you can to keep utilities as low as possible.
As the property owner, performing essential maintenance on your air conditioning unit and following a few simple strategies can help you optimize your air conditioning system and keep your expenses under control.
Perform essential HVAC maintenance regularly
One of the best ways to increase your air conditioning unit’s efficiency is to clean it properly at least once a year. If your unit sits on the ground, clear away any leaves or debris that may have fallen on or around it. You can also clean your unit’s condenser coils and drain lines yourself or have a professional do it.
Most air conditioning units have a drain by the indoor cooling coil, which is usually located near your furnace. You can easily clear it by pouring one cup of bleach down the drain and then rinsing it with a gallon of water.
Prevent the HVAC from working harder than it should
Another vital part of optimizing your air conditioning system is making airflow more efficient. A great place to start is to clear items away from your indoor vents and vacuum them out. This will help your AC system distribute cold air more efficiently throughout the house.
Airflow efficiency is crucial to optimizing your air conditioning system. Clear items away from your indoor vents and vacuum them to help your AC system distribute cold air. Keep your interior doors open, and close your blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day. Add good quality weather-stripping to prevent air leaks and keep the cold air circulating inside.
Raising your thermostat to 78 degrees at home by two or three degrees can reduce the strain on your air conditioning unit. Using a fan with your air conditioning, like a ceiling fan or table fan, will circulate the air faster and boost your air conditioning unit’s functionality.
Avoid adding extra heat sources
Everyday tasks like cooking, using the oven, or running the clothes dryer can all heat up your house, overtaxing your air conditioning unit. During the warmest months, avoid these appliances during the hottest parts of the day. Opt for using your appliances in the morning or at night, such as early meal prep or late-night laundry. If cooking during peak heat is necessary, use an exhaust fan to pull the heat out of the house or a floor fan to push the warmth away, preventing your kitchen from overheating and supporting your AC’s efforts.
Regular maintenance can optimize your air conditioning system, reducing costs and repairs. At Real Property Management Titan, we’re dedicated to maintaining all our rental properties, ensuring air conditioning systems provide a comfortable living experience. Looking for property management services in Columbia? Contact us online or call 615-538-7711!
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