5 Ways to Tell if Your A/C is Energy Efficient
Air conditioning usage in homes increases as the summer heat ramps up. However, a sizable portion of your monthly energy usage may come from operating your A/C. Ensuring your air conditioner is energy efficient will help you beat the heat and can help lower your monthly energy costs while keeping your family cool! Here are 5 Ways to Tell if Your A/C is Energy Efficient:
Evaluate Cooling Performance
An energy-efficient air conditioner should regularly and evenly cool your home. However, if some rooms are significantly cooler than others or if the air coming from the vents isn't as cold as it used to be, your system may be working too hard to distribute air, which can reduce efficiency.
Monitor Your Energy Bills
Pay attention to your energy costs. If you notice a consistent rise in expenses without a corresponding rise in usage or higher seasonal temperatures, your A/C unit may be losing efficiency. You can identify any differences by comparing your current bills with those from the same period in prior years.
Listen to Your Unit
An efficient A/C system runs smoothly and quietly. If your unit is making unusual noises, such as grinding, squealing, or rattling, it may not be running efficiently. These sounds can indicate that something is wrong internally, thus causing your unit to use more energy to provide the same level of cooling.
Regular Maintenance Is Essential
Your air conditioner's efficiency depends on routine maintenance. This includes checking the thermostat settings, ensuring the condensing unit outside is not obstructed by trash or plants, and routinely changing, replacing, or cleaning air conditioner filters every one to three months. These actions can reduce energy use by 5% to 15%. Frequent repairs and recurrent malfunctions could indicate an inefficient unit.
Age of the Unit
Generally, the older the air conditioner, the less efficient it becomes. Most air conditioners have a lifespan of about 10-15 years. If your unit is approaching or has surpassed this age range, its efficiency might be significantly lower than when it was new. Upgrading to a newer model can dramatically increase your home's energy efficiency.
