While a tuned-up, efficient air conditioning system is first on the list for staying comfortable, there are also other ways you can hold down your energy use. For starters:
Reduce the heat. Turn off your heat producing appliances and electronics during the day when practical or when you’re not using them. These include overhead lights and lamps, televisions, ovens and other electronics and appliances that heat up your home when in use.
Also, remember that your thermostat is designed to sense temperature. Avoid putting lamps or televisions near the thermostat, or their heat will influence the thermostat’s reading, resulting in a longer run for your air conditioning system.
Use your thermostat efficiently. It stands to reason that the lower you set your thermostat, the harder your system will have to work. So set it to the highest temperature you can and still be comfortable. The use of a ceiling fan, by the way, can help you feel cooler at higher temperatures. And remember; don’t lower your thermostat to an unreasonable setting when you first turn on your air conditioner. It won’t cool your home any faster, and it will produce stress on your system.
Create more shade. During the day, close blinds, shades and draperies when they’re facing the sun – in other words, east-facing in the morning, west-facing in the afternoon. This will help keep the sun from heating up your home.
For the long view, plant trees and shrubs to shade your outdoor air conditioning unit. But do make sure you’ve still got plenty of room for air to flow around the unit and don’t let the landscape encroach on your system. Make sure your technician has plenty of room to service the equipment too.
If you have any problems with your air conditioning system, energy use or indoor air quality, remember, Ottawa Home Services here to help. Let us hear from you.