How NOT to Use Your Air Conditioner This Summer

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How NOT to Use Your Air Conditioner This Summer

To keep your air conditioner running efficiently and to avoid unnecessary costs or potential damage, here are some tips on how not to use your air conditioner this summer:

1. Don't Set the Temperature Too Low

Setting your AC to an extremely low temperature won't cool your home faster. It will just make your AC work harder and longer, leading to higher energy bills and increased wear and tear.

2. Avoid Constantly Changing the Thermostat Setting

Frequently adjusting the thermostat up and down makes your AC work harder to maintain the desired temperature, resulting in higher energy consumption. Find a comfortable setting and leave it there.

3. Don't Leave Windows and Doors Open

Leaving windows and doors open while the AC is running makes the unit work harder to cool the space, wasting energy and increasing costs.

4. Don't Block Vents or Registers

Ensure that furniture, curtains, or other objects are not obstructing the airflow from vents or registers. Blocked vents reduce efficiency and can cause uneven cooling.

5. Don't Skip Regular Maintenance

Neglecting routine maintenance like cleaning or replacing filters, checking refrigerant levels, and ensuring the coils are clean can lead to reduced efficiency and potential breakdowns.

6. Don't Ignore Strange Noises or Odors

Unusual noises or smells coming from your AC can indicate a problem. Ignoring these signs can lead to more significant issues and costly repairs down the line.

7. Don't Use an Incorrectly Sized Unit

Using an AC unit that is too small or too large for your space can lead to inefficiency and increased energy costs. Ensure your unit is properly sized for the area it needs to cool.

8. Don't Forget to Use Fans

Ceiling fans or portable fans can help circulate cool air more effectively, allowing you to set your thermostat a bit higher without sacrificing comfort.

9. Don't Overlook Insulation and Sealing

Poor insulation and sealing can lead to cooled air escaping and warm air entering your home, making your AC work harder. Ensure your home is properly insulated and sealed.

10. Don't Run the AC When No One Is Home

There’s no need to cool an empty house. Use a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature when you're away, then cool the house just before you return.

11. Don't Cover or Block the Outdoor Unit

Ensure that the outdoor unit has adequate clearance and is free from obstructions like plants, debris, or structures that could block airflow and reduce efficiency.

12. Don't Use the AC All Day

Try to limit AC use by cooling your home during the cooler parts of the day and using natural ventilation when possible. For example, open windows at night or early morning when it's cooler outside.

13. Don't Ignore the Humidity Level

High humidity can make you feel warmer. Using a dehumidifier in conjunction with your AC can help maintain comfort without setting the thermostat lower than necessary.

14. Don't Forget About Energy-Efficient Practices

Simple practices like closing blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day can reduce the heat entering your home, lessening the load on your AC.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure your air conditioner runs efficiently, reduces energy costs, and provides reliable comfort throughout the summer.