Summers in Modesto, CA, and the surrounding areas are long and hot. In addition to keeping your blinds or curtains closed, not using the oven, staying hydrated and using exhaust fans when cooking and bathing, you’ll need a properly functioning air conditioning system for relief from the heat. Use these three air conditioning tips to keep yourself comfortable this summer.
Program Your Thermostat
Take advantage of the convenience and energy savings of a programmable or smart thermostat. According to the Department of Energy, keeping your home warmer when you’re away could lower your electricity bills by a considerable amount. Raising the temperature while you’re gone allows you to save money, and you won’t have to sacrifice your comfort. Smart thermostats learn your schedule, and they make automatic adjustments based on your location and comfort preferences.
Keep Vents and Filters Clean
When you vacuum or sweep your floors, clean the intake vents. Your cooling system draws warm air from your living spaces through the intake vents and sends it to the evaporator, which absorbs the heat and sends it to the outdoor unit. Once each month, check your air conditioner’s filter. If it’s dirty, replace it. A dirty air filter impedes airflow and reduces the air conditioner’s efficiency.
Use Ceiling Fans
Pairing your home’s ceiling fans with your air conditioning system optimizes your comfort and lowers your electricity bills. Set the fan’s blades to rotate counter-clockwise. The fan’s breeze creates a windchill effect that helps you feel cooler. You could raise the thermostat by three to four degrees Fahrenheit without sacrificing your comfort. Doing this could lower your summertime cooling costs by up to 10%. Remember to only turn ceiling fans on when you’re in the room. Turn them off when you leave.
For more information about how to make the most of your air conditioning system and stay comfortable this summer, take a look at CEN-CAL AIR Heating and Cooling’s air conditioning services, or call us for additional details.