7 Ways to Use Your AC More Efficiently in Fresno, TX

With the arrival of spring comes warmer weather and a stronger need for AC in your Fresno, TX home. Using your air conditioner more could mean a rise in your utility expenses. To prevent dramatic jumps in energy costs, read below for tips and strategies to use your AC system more efficiently.

1. Change AC Air Filters

Your air conditioner has filters that help keep dust, dirt and other contaminants from entering your cooling system and spreading throughout your house. If the filter clogs, your system has to work harder to create and blow cold air. Change your AC air filters at least once every two to three months to keep them clean and free of clogs so your system can perform more efficiently.

2. Keep Outdoor Unit Clean and Clear

Reduce stress and strain on your air conditioner by keeping your outside condenser unit free of leaves, twigs and any other debris that falls on it. You can use your garden hose on a low setting to gently rinse the outside of the unit, taking care not to spray water into the fan.

Clear vegetation around the unit, ensuring a two- to three-foot clearance. When possible, choose a shady spot for a new system’s placement.

3. Utilize Your Ceiling Fans

Your ceiling fans are a great way to supplement your air conditioner’s work by circulating air and preventing stagnant heat in the room. Switch the ceiling fans to move counterclockwise, which creates a downdraft and cool breeze. This motion also helps circulate the hot air that rises to the ceiling, preventing hot spots around the house.

4. Keep Doors and Windows Closed

Your doors and windows play a crucial role in providing a barrier to keep hot air outside and cold air inside. Make sure you shut all windows tightly, as even a single open window anywhere in the house can allow enough heat in to affect your cooling system’s efficiency.

When the temperatures reach extreme highs outdoors, try to limit opening your outer doors. If you have an attached garage, you can use the garage door when possible to limit hot air from creeping inside.

5. Schedule Professional Maintenance

Your cooling system requires regular professional maintenance to keep peak performance throughout the warmer seasons. Our skilled technicians clean, tune, adjust and inspect your cooling system during in-depth annual maintenance. This comprehensive service helps us keep all your AC components in optimal condition for less stressful operation and greater energy efficiency.

6. Adjust the Temperature

Adjust the temperature on your thermostat to suit your changing comfort needs. This means raising the temperature slightly when you are away from home for extended periods and have less need for cooling. Lower the temperature by a few degrees when you need more cooling to stay comfortable, such as when you sleep at night or when the outdoor temperatures soar to extreme highs.

7. Check for Proper Placement of Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is an important tool for your air conditioning system, as it allows you to set your preferences, sending signals to the AC on when to start and stop. Your thermostat should be in a central location, far away from exterior walls in the house, doors and windows on the main floor.

Make sure it is away from vents and anything else that can produce variances in temperature. It should be in a room that is not unusually hotter or colder than other areas of the house.

Cooling your home this spring doesn’t have to break the bank and cause you to adjust your budget. When you follow efficiency tips and schedule certain professional services, you can maintain a cool and comfortable home. Call the best technicians in Fresno, TX at Davis Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc. today and let us help you with your air conditioning repairs and maintenance today.

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