All-time summertime heat records keep buckling under the weight of increasing global temperatures-- a pattern that strikes home, literally and figuratively, when you get your regular monthly a/c bill. Mistakes you're making with your home AC might air conditioning edmonton ab be damaging its efficiency, effectiveness, and security, specialists state.
If you have a terribly kept system, it can become contaminated with bacteria that might be hazardous if inhaled. Common symptoms are asthma problems and allergic reactions.
Here are 8 of the most common errors people make when it comes to home AC, and some basic adjustments that can save your lungs and wallet.
# 1. You Aren't Changing or Cleaning Your AC Filters
At a minimum, you ought to be changing the filter on your main A/C unit as soon as every three months-- and as typically as once a month if your system is running all the time.
Overlook this task, and a filthy filter can lead to bad air circulation or freezing up of your unit's evaporator coil, states James Braun, a professor of engineering and director of the Center for High Efficiency Structures at Purdue University. An unclean filter might add 5% to 15% to your A/C costs, and will reduce the life-span of your entire system. Luckily, replacement filters are quite inexpensive-- normally less than $10.
If you have ductless "split" Air Conditioner units, there need to be a detachable panel on your system that will allow you to wipe off the filter with a rag-- no replacement essential.
# 2. You're Not Having Your System Serviced Yearly
You could look up online video tutorials about cleaning your A/C system's coils and fins-- necessary upkeep operations that keep your system up and running efficiently. You could also generate a pro to service your system once a year. The U.S. Department of Energy offers some pointers when looking for A/C service contractors.
# 3. You Do not Have a Programmable Thermostat
Possibly you are among those super-humans who always keeps in mind to adjust the thermostat prior to leaving your house. However if you're like the rest people, a programmable thermostat can conserve you hundreds on your yearly Air Conditioner costs by automatically raising the temperature at those times of day when you're at work or far from home. More recent phone-controllable "smart" thermostats make programming even easier.
# 4. You're Setting Your Thermostat Too Low
Research reveals the human body can adjusting to hot or cool temperature levels pretty quickly-- like within a week or 2. When you consider you'll cut up to 3% off your Air Conditioning expense for every single degree you raise the temperature level-- not to mention the possible environmental benefits of reducing your A/C use-- it's worth sweating through that adjustment period and setting your thermostat somewhere in the high 70s (or greater if you can handle it).
# 5. You're Not Making The Most Of Fans
Any kind of fan, however especially ceiling fans, can help keep one's cool air flowing throughout your home. That removes a few of the concern from your A/C system. Just be sure your ceiling fans are turning counterclockwise during the summer, which promotes greater air circulation.
# 6. Your Thermostat and/or Vents Are Improperly Placed
If the sun or a nearby light blasts your thermostat for big portions of the day, that might shake off its readings and trigger it to crank your AC although your place is happily cool. Especially if you're away throughout the day, you may not understand your system is working overtime due to a misplaced thermostat.
Blocking Air Conditioning vents with furnishings or drapes can likewise restrict air circulation. Unless you spend a great deal of time huddled under your sofa, you'll wish to make certain your Air Conditioning vents are unobstructed.
# 7. You're Cooling Empty Spaces
If A/C vents are open in every space of your home, you're cooling a great deal of genuine estate that may not remain in use on a daily basis. Walk around and close those Air Conditioner vents that open onto unoccupied rooms. Closing closet doors ensures those areas aren't swallowing your cold air.
# 8. You Do not Have Blinds Or Curtains
Brilliant sunshine is your Air Conditioning system's bane. By closing blinds and moving curtains to obstruct the sun's rays, you'll also protect your space from the sun's heat, experts state.