Maximize Your Home’s AC in NJ

Are you trying to lower your energy bill but still want to utilize your central air conditioner? In the middle of a New Jersey summer, it may not be practical to suggest that you simply stop using your unit. Thankfully, there are numerous ways to support your air conditioner, whether you want to run it at a lower setting, help keep it from overworking, or reduce your energy bill by simply running it less. Our cooling experts have provided a handful of suggestions below for maximizing your home’s AC in NJ this summer:

Install a Programmable Thermostat

One of the best ways to help increase your air conditioner’s effectiveness and efficiency is by installing a programmable thermostat. Maximizing your AC is easy if you are not the one making the thermostat adjustments. Simply input your schedule or purchase a learning model and let the thermostat do the work. According to EnergyStar.gov, raising your home’s temperature slightly during the day and while you are asleep means your AC does not have to run as long or as often. This translates directly into energy savings, but it also helps reduce wear and tear on your unit.

Keep an Eye on the Weather

Although using a programmable thermostat is great for reducing AC usage at night or when you’re away from the house, you could try turning off the system completely if the weather allows. On cool nights, open the windows and utilize a box or window fan as needed. In the morning, close the windows as well as the blinds or shades on the east and south sides of your home. Turn the air conditioner back on as the day heats up, but keep an eye out for the next mild night.

Ask for an Energy Audit

Air leaks in your doors, windows, and ductwork can be considered money lost. Energy-efficient houses can use smaller AC units that run less frequently than older, drafty homes. Visit Energy.gov for more information on how an inspector will examine insulation, check for leaks, and perform a blower door test. Making improvements based on an energy assessment is a great way to help support your air conditioner. Even simple adjustments, such as sealing the cracks around windows and doors, can make a difference in reducing your AC’s workload.

Perform Proper Care and Maintenance

Aside from making occasional thermostat adjustments, it is easy to turn your air conditioner on and essentially forget about it all summer. In reality, it is important to check the AC unit occasionally to ensure it is operating at max efficiency. Request a tune-up from a specialized HVAC technician, especially if you begin to notice problems. In the meantime, a few do-it-yourself suggestions include replacing the filter, cleaning the evaporator and condenser coils, checking the refrigerant level, and cleaning and adjusting the unit’s blower components.

For help maximizing your AC’s efficiency and effectiveness, contact Point Bay Fuel. We are a full-service company that serves homes and businesses in Ocean and Monmouth counties, New Jersey. To discuss your HVAC needs, contact us by calling (732) 349-5059 or filling out our simple contact form online.