Heating and cooling bills often form the bulk of a household’s total utility expenses, with air conditioning spiking costs in summer. 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
For optimizing your air conditioning system, prioritize airflow. Clear items away from your indoor vents to help your AC system distribute cold air. Keep your interior doors open, adjusting vents in unused rooms. Close your blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day, and use good quality weather-stripping to prevent air leaks and keep the cold air circulating inside. Raising your thermostat by two or three degrees to 78 degrees at home can reduce the strain on your air conditioning unit. 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
Cooking, using the oven, or running the clothes dryer can all heat up your house. Using these appliances during the hottest parts of the day can make your air conditioning unit work even harder. Try using your appliances in the morning or at night only during the warmest months. If you do need to cook, use your exhaust fan to pull the heat out of the house or a floor fan to help it disperse. Doing so can help keep your kitchen from becoming the hottest spot in the house.
Following simple strategies and regular maintenance can optimize your air conditioning system and reduce utility and repair costs throughout the summer.
With regular maintenance can optimize your air conditioning system, you’ll cut costs. At Real Property Management Stellar, we prioritize maintaining all our rental properties, ensuring air conditioning systems support providing a comfortable living experience. Need property management services in Jefferson? Contact us at 404-375-4639.
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