How to improve your AC efficiency

June 21 marks the official start to summer, but in many places across the U.S., temperatures are on the rise long before that.

To combat the heat, air conditioning units are forced into overdrive, sending energy bills skyrocketing in the interest of keeping offices, facilities and warehouses cool. The good news? There are steps you can take to improve your AC efficiency throughout the warmest months of the year, which can keep temperatures and costs in check.

Here are seven strategies to keep your space cool and your energy bill in check.

Program your thermostat

There is a persistent myth when it comes to temperature control: If you’re constantly changing the temperature, your AC system will have to work harder to keep up. As the Department of Energy explains, that’s not the case. In fact, you can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by turning your thermostat back 7°-10°F for eight hours a day. That makes adjusting your thermostat depending on when your building or facility is occupied an easy and effective way to lower your energy costs and keep your system running efficiently all year long. This is particularly relevant now, as many companies have shifted to remote work. People aren’t in the office as much as they once were, which creates more opportunities for energy savings and to spare your AC system from overwork.

Adjusting the thermostat can of course be done manually, but programmable thermostats offer a simpler option. You can set your thermostat to cooler temperatures when your space will be occupied and higher temperatures when it won’t. If you don’t already have one in place, consider installing one to save yourself time and energy, too.

Use fans

Simple and effective, fans can augment your existing cooling system and target cool air where you want it to go. Cool air naturally travels downward, so fans can work to spread that air around, cooling larger areas without taxing your AC system. Depending on your building or facility, you can install overhead fans or use portable options to cool specific spaces as needed.

Look for leaks

Leaks are escape routes for cool air. When you’ve got them, you’re wasting time and energy in your efforts to keep internal temperatures down.

Although leaks are a big problem, so are the other inefficiencies that can plague older buildings and warehouses. Old windows or poor insulation can cause your AC unit to work harder with very little to show for it. If this sounds familiar, it may be time to consider upgrading your space to save money and energy over the long term. 

Replace your filters

Your AC system has a filter to protect it from dust and debris that can impair its ability to function properly. Filters also improve the quality of the air we breathe throughout the day. It is therefore a good idea to replace those filters regularly to keep your system running efficiently and mitigate the risk for costly repairs down the road.

Regular maintenance is key

In addition to filter replacement, it’s important to have your AC system maintained regularly. Committing to a regular maintenance schedule can spare you the headache of sudden system problems or failures, and it helps your AC run at peak efficiency. Consider maintenance an investment in the longevity and performance of your system, one that will save you time and money in the long run.  

Upgrade if necessary

Even the most well-maintained units will eventually reach the end of their useful lives, and while upgrading your unit requires an upfront investment, you will likely save money as a result. According to the Department of Energy, you could save 20% to 40% on your cooling costs when you replace an aging air conditioner.

Add cooling support when you need it

If you have a special project or need that will require additional cooling resources, consider bringing in supplemental units to spare your AC system the extra work. At Sunbelt Rentals, we offer a variety of cooling options for facilities of all sizes. Bonus: These units can also be pulled in if your AC unit fails and you need cooling fast.

At Sunbelt Rentals, our team of experts is ready to help with all of your cooling needs. Contact us today for more information and a free quote!