While you rely on your air conditioner to keep you cool and comfortable through the warmest months of the year. If the system is compromised in any way, it may use more energy than necessary in its efforts to cool your home. This can lead to a number of problems, like elevated utility costs and discomfort. Fortunately, there are several steps that you can take to improve efficiency while avoiding unexpected air conditioning repairs. Here’s what you should know.

How to Boost AC Efficiency Levels

1. Replace the Air Filter

The air filter is designed to trap the harmful contaminants that otherwise circulate through your home, like dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, and dirt. Over time, those pollutants clog the filter and prevent it from doing its job as efficiently as usual. This can have a direct impact on the air conditioning system, forcing it to work harder to push clean air through the filter in its efforts to cool your home to your desired temperature. 

The system will cycle on too often, leading to higher energy bills and reduced comfort overall. Change the filter at least once every two to three months to protect the integrity of the system.

2. Check the Air Vents

Walk around your home and make sure the air vents are free of obstructions. It’s not unusual for items like area rugs, furniture, or even toys to block their path, preventing cooled air from circulating. As a result, the air conditioner uses more energy to cool the house to the temperature set on the thermostat. 

You can relieve the system of that burden and even avoid potential air conditioning repairs simply by clearing blocked vents. While you’re doing this, vacuum them or wipe them down to prevent grime and debris from minimizing efficiency, too.

3. Clean the Outdoor Unit

The outdoor unit houses the condenser coil, fan, and compressor. This is where the heat that’s absorbed inside the home is released, so it’s crucial that it works properly. Sometimes, built-up debris impacts its efficiency and causes it to slow down. 

Brush away any dirt, twigs, and other debris that might have accumulated. If necessary, trim away any neighboring bushes or shrubs that might be overgrown. Aim to create at least two feet of clearance space in all directions. This will allow contractors to check the unit easily, and you can avoid some of the problems that may come with dirt and grime buildup. 
 

If you need a reliable professional for air conditioning repairs or maintenance, turn to the team at Dudding’s Heating and Cooling in Gas City, IN. Proudly serving clients throughout Grant County for over 20 years, they offer a range of services to ensure you and your family are comfortable year-round and your system always runs efficiently. Call (765) 573-5026 to schedule an appointment.