1. Get Your Annual Tune-Up

Schedule an annual tune-up for your AC unit. This will help ensure that it’s operating at peak efficiency. Not only will this save you money on your energy bill, but it will also extend the lifespan of your unit.

During a tune-up, a technician will clean the coils and drain pan. Check the Freon levels, inspect the electrical components, and lubricate all moving parts. This preventative maintenance helps keep your AC unit running smoothly and prevents minor problems from turning into significant repairs.

If you live in an area with long, hot summers, it’s imperative to have a well-maintained AC unit. Don’t wait until your unit breaks down to schedule a tune-up – by then, it’s too late!

2. Change Your Air Filters

Clean the air filter on your AC monthly. A clean filter will allow the unit to run more efficiently and prevent expensive repairs down the road.

It’s easy to forget to change the air filter, but it’s essential for AC maintenance. Put a reminder on your calendar or set up a recurring order for replacement filters, so you don’t have to think about it.

3. Clear Away Debris

Keep the area around your AC unit clear of debris and obstructions. This will ensure that the unit has proper airflow and can operate more efficiently. Check the area around the unit monthly and clear away any leaves, dirt, or other debris that may have accumulated.

4. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

Invest in a smart thermostat. This will allow you to set specific temperatures automatically for different times of the day. Further saving you money on your energy bill.

A smart thermostat can also help you manage your energy usage more effectively. By tracking your energy consumption, you can make adjustments to reduce your overall use. It’s a great way to save money on your energy bill and improve the efficiency of your AC unit.

5. Insulate Your Home

When the air conditioner is running, keep your windows and doors closed. This will prevent cool air from escaping and help the unit run more efficiently. You can also add weatherstripping to windows and doors to prevent air leakage.

6. Use Your Fans

You don’t need to completely swap your fans for AC during summer. Instead, use ceiling fans to circulate cool air throughout your home. This can help you feel comfortable at a higher temperature, which will save you money on your energy bill.

7. Keep The Sun Out

Close blinds and drapes during the daytime to keep the sun’s heat out of your home. This will help keep your home cooler and reduce the workload for your AC unit.

8. Avoid Producing Heat

Use appliances that generate heat (such as the oven or dryer) during the cooler hours of the day. This will help prevent your AC unit from working overtime to cool your home. You can also swap your oven for a countertop slow cooker or your stove for an outdoor grill to reduce residual heat when possible.

Another way to avoid producing heat is to unplug appliances when they’re not in use. Many devices, like computers and TVs, give off heat even when turned off. So unplugging them can help keep your home cooler.