Summer is a great time to get out and enjoy the outdoors. But when the temperatures rise, so do your air conditioner bills. Higher temps can make your AC work harder to keep your home comfortable. You can lower utility bills, save energy, and maximize your air conditioner’s efficiency with our 7 air conditioner tips to beat the Minneapolis heat this summer.
1. Check your filters
Checking and changing your air filters is the easiest and most effective way to conserve energy and save money in the summer. If your filters go unchecked, this can clog your system causing your AC to work harder to provide the same amount of cool air. We recommend changing your air filter once a month, especially during the summer when dust and allergens circulate.
2. Shade your air conditioner
Your air conditioner will have an easier time cooling the air inside your home when the air is cooler around your unit. Keeping your air conditioner in a shady spot will increase your home’s comfort and energy efficiency.
3. Clear your AC space
Clutter around your air conditioning unit can impact it’s effectiveness. Avoid landscaping within 2-4 feet of your unit to ensure adequate air flow. Landscaping rock, asphalt, and cement can also increase your unit’s temperature.
4. Keep indoor appliances away from your thermostat
Your thermostat can sense heat within your home. A great way to save on utility bills is to keep your thermostat cool by removing heat sources like direct sunlight and heat producing appliances. Lamps, TVs, and even direct sun can cause your thermostat to sense that it’s warmer than actual temps in your home and cause your AC to run longer than necessary.
5. Program your thermostat
Did you know that when you set your thermostat below 78 degrees, you are increasing your energy consumption? The best way to conserve energy and lower utility bills is to program your thermostat for when you are not at home or when it’s cooler outside like overnight.
6. Turn on your ceiling fans
This might seem like a no-brainer, but turning on your ceiling fans can help keep your house temperature cooler ensuring less running time for your AC. In summer months, be sure to run your fans counter clockwise which pushes cool air down.
7. Schedule a tune up
You best investment for beating the heat this summer is to schedule a tune up with an HVAC professional. Your HVAC technician should inspect and clean your unit before the summer gets into full swing.
If you’re ready to beat the heat this summer, then we’re ready to help. We offer a 21-point inspection and a comfort care package for regular and scheduled tune ups each year.
