3 Tips to Maximize the Performance of Your Air Conditioner

The air conditioner in your home is an important appliance. The way it operates will not only determine the level of comfort in your home but also your energy bill. It is important to maximize the performance of your air conditioner so that your comfort level will be high and your energy bill as low as possible. Changing the filter, adjusting the vent covers and purchasing an energy efficient air conditioner can allow the air conditioner to achieve maximum performance. These three tips are not time consuming and can make a big difference.

Changing the Filter

If the air conditioner has a filter, it is recommended that the filter be changed monthly or as directed by the manufacturer. The owner’s manual for your air conditioner may give you additional information on how to operate your air conditioner for peak performance. If there are pets in the home, the filter may need to be changed more often due to pet hair. If the air filter is not changed on a regular basis, the filter may become clogged, which will cause the air conditioner not to run at peak performance. If the air conditioner has difficulty filtering air through the filter, it may become damaged or stop working completely.

Adjusting the Vent Covers

Different air conditioner models have different venting systems. In a central air conditioner typically the vents are found near the floor or ceiling. It is important that the vents are fully open. If the vents are not open fully, the cold air cannot circulate. Essentially the air conditioner will be using energy to release cold air but the cold air cannot leave the duct system. In addition to the vents being open, it is important that any type of structure, such as a wall mirror or furniture, does not block the vents. Whenever the air conditioner is operating, it is important to gain the maximum benefit or you will be wasting money. A portable air conditioner, such as one that rests on the floor, will have a vent that takes the warm air from the room and disperses it outdoors or to another room. The vent needs to be securely fastened to the outdoor area, such as a window. If the warm air is not allowed to exit the room as needed then the air conditioner will not be able to cool all of the air in the room.

Purchasing an Energy Efficient Air Conditioner

When purchasing an air conditioner there are many options regarding energy efficiency. The first way you can save money with your new air conditioner is by ensuring that it is energy efficient. There are Energy Star labels on appliances that indicate they meet guidelines set by the government for energy efficiency. When purchasing appliances there is a label that will indicate the average cost of use for a 12-month period. The lowest average cost will help ensure you use as little energy as possible.

By choosing to properly maintain the air conditioner with regular filter changes, setting up the vents correctly and purchasing the most energy efficient model, the air conditioner will operate at peak performance. The performance of the air conditioner will determine if the room is comfortable and the energy bill as low as possible. These money saving tips are very quick and easy to do.