Boosting Your Air Conditioning System's Performance
It is easy to assume that the only effective way of improving the performance of an air conditioning system will be to completely replace or upgrade the system. However, there are a handful of fairly minor upgrades and changes that may drastically improve the ability of your system to cool as well as its overall efficiency.
Improve Air Flow Through The Ducting
Poor airflow through the interior ducting can be one of the largest drags on the overall performance of the system. Regardless of the system's ability to cool air, this will mean little if it is unable to effectively distribute the cooler air throughout the house. The installation of duct fans can substantially improve the air flow as these fans can accelerate the air that is moving through it.
Shade Your Exterior Unit
When an exterior unit is exposed to direct sunlight, it can rapidly increase in temperature. These temperature gains can result in the system cool less efficiently. Blocking the sunlight from reaching the air conditioning unit can be the best way to combat this particular source of inefficiency. While you may want to use plants to achieve this goal, this may be a counterproductive approach as these plants can clog the unit with leaves, sticks, and flower petals. An awning can be an effective option that will avoid these potential problems.
Ensure You Are Using Filters That Are Compatible With Your System
Your choice of air filters may not seem like it will have a major impact on your system's overall use. However, a filter that is not compatible with your system can lead to some sizable performance problems. This is due to the filter's ability to restrict the airflow into the system. By using an incompatible air filter, you may be severely reducing the system's ability to cool the home while causing it to experience more stress and strain.
Avoid Using The System When You Are Not Home
Using the air conditioning system when you are not home can be one of the more major sources of energy waste and unnecessary wear. While you may avoid turning off the system due to wanting to return to a cool and comfortable home, there is a way to balance these competing needs. A programmable thermostat can provide for far more precise control over when the system is running. In the past, these thermostats only allowed for the system to be set to run during certain times. However, modern smart thermostats have this feature as well as being able to be controlled from smartphones.
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