Installing a new air conditioning system is a great way to improve your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. However, your job isn’t done once the system is installed. To get the most out of your AC and keep your energy bills low, you’ll need to take a few extra steps to maximize efficiency and optimize your cooling habits.
For professional guidance on energy-efficient AC solutions, call AC Installations at (212) 658-3916. We’ll help you save money while staying cool.
Why Your Energy Bills Might Still Be High
Even with a brand-new, energy-efficient AC system, improper usage or home inefficiencies can result in higher-than-expected energy bills. Common reasons include:
- Running the AC at low temperatures for long periods.
- Poor insulation or air leaks in your home.
- Lack of routine maintenance and cleaning.
- Ignoring other energy-saving strategies like sealing ducts or upgrading your thermostat.
By addressing these issues, you can reduce your energy costs and enjoy the full benefits of your new AC system.
Steps to Lower Energy Bills After an AC Installation
1. Set Your Thermostat Strategically
One of the easiest ways to save energy is to set your thermostat to an energy-efficient temperature.
Ideal Temperature Settings:
- 78°F when you’re at home and awake.
- Raise the temperature 7-10°F when you’re away or asleep.
- Use a programmable or smart thermostat to adjust temperatures automatically based on your schedule.
Maintaining moderate settings prevents your system from overworking while keeping your home comfortable.
2. Use Ceiling Fans to Enhance Cooling
Ceiling fans help circulate cool air, allowing you to feel more comfortable at higher thermostat settings.
Tips for Using Ceiling Fans:
- Run the fans in a counterclockwise direction during the summer to push cool air downward.
- Turn fans off when you leave the room to save energy.
- Pair fans with your AC to reduce strain on the system.
Using fans strategically can make your home feel cooler without increasing energy consumption.
3. Seal Air Leaks and Insulate Your Home
Air leaks and poor insulation force your AC to work harder to maintain the desired temperature.
How to Seal and Insulate:
- Apply weatherstripping or caulk around windows and doors.
- Insulate your attic and walls to reduce heat transfer.
- Seal any leaks in your ductwork to prevent cool air from escaping.
Improving your home’s insulation ensures your AC operates more efficiently.
4. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Routine maintenance is essential to keep your AC system running efficiently. Neglecting maintenance can lead to clogged filters, dirty coils, or low refrigerant levels, all of which reduce performance and increase energy use.
Maintenance Tasks to Prioritize:
- Replace air filters every 1-3 months.
- Clean the condenser and evaporator coils.
- Check refrigerant levels and inspect for leaks.
- Schedule professional tune-ups annually.
At AC Installations, we offer maintenance plans to help you keep your system in top condition. Call us at (212) 658-3916 to learn more.
5. Optimize Airflow
Blocked vents, registers, or ductwork can reduce your system’s efficiency and increase energy costs.
Tips for Improving Airflow:
- Keep vents and registers open and unobstructed by furniture or curtains.
- Regularly clean vents to remove dust and debris.
- Inspect your ductwork for leaks or blockages and have them repaired if necessary.
Good airflow ensures your AC cools your home evenly and efficiently.
6. Use Curtains and Blinds to Block Heat
Direct sunlight can heat up your home, forcing your AC to work harder. Using window treatments can help reduce heat gain and lower energy usage.
How to Reduce Heat Gain:
- Close blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day.
- Use reflective or blackout curtains to block sunlight more effectively.
- Install window films to reduce heat transfer.
These simple steps can make a noticeable difference in keeping your home cool.
7. Limit Heat-Generating Activities
Certain activities, like cooking or running appliances, can add unnecessary heat to your home.
Energy-Saving Tips:
- Cook meals during cooler parts of the day or use a microwave instead of an oven.
- Run dishwashers, washers, and dryers at night when it’s cooler.
- Use LED bulbs, which produce less heat than traditional incandescent lights.
Reducing heat sources minimizes the strain on your AC system.
8. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat can save energy by learning your habits and adjusting cooling settings automatically.
Features of Smart Thermostats:
- Create schedules for energy-efficient cooling.
- Monitor energy usage and receive tips to save money.
- Control your system remotely using a smartphone app.
Upgrading to a smart thermostat is a simple way to optimize your cooling system.
9. Invest in Energy-Efficient Upgrades
If your home still isn’t as efficient as you’d like, consider additional upgrades to reduce energy usage.
Options to Consider:
- Install energy-efficient windows with low-E coatings.
- Upgrade insulation in attics and crawl spaces.
- Add an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) to improve airflow and reduce energy waste.
These upgrades can significantly enhance your home’s energy efficiency and lower cooling costs.
10. Monitor Your Energy Usage
Keeping track of your energy usage can help you identify patterns and find additional ways to save.
How to Monitor Energy Use:
- Use your utility company’s online tools to track usage.
- Invest in an energy monitor to identify which appliances consume the most energy.
- Compare bills month-to-month to spot inefficiencies.
Being aware of your energy habits allows you to make informed adjustments and maximize savings.
Conclusion
Lowering your energy bills after an AC installation is all about making small, consistent changes to improve efficiency and reduce waste. By setting your thermostat wisely, sealing air leaks, scheduling maintenance, and taking advantage of energy-saving tools like smart thermostats and ceiling fans, you can keep your home cool without overspending.
For expert AC installation and energy-saving advice, contact AC Installations at (212) 658-3916. Our team is here to help you enjoy a comfortable, energy-efficient home.
Start saving money and energy with a few simple steps today!