Homeowners know that having the air conditioning running for long stretches of time will result to higher electricity bills. While they may feel this is necessary particularly during extremely hot summer days, this may not be unnecessary if the right practices are observed.
With this in mind, homeowners in Ramsey or Coon Rapids, MN and elsewhere can consider a few tips provided in an article posted on the Department of Energy’s website, Energy.gov. One of these calls for the installation of correctly-sized air conditioning units:
A room air conditioner that’s too big for the area it is supposed to cool will perform less efficiently and less effectively than a smaller, properly sized unit. The reason: an oversized unit will cool the room(s) to the thermostat set-point before proper dehumidification occurs, making the area feel “clammy” and uncomfortable. Central air-conditioning systems need to be sized by professionals.
The article also gives other pointers on how to cool one’s room in a cost-efficient manner. One way is by raising the thermostat to a temperature that is comfortable enough during summer months, while controlling humidity as needed.
Also, the article advises using a mechanical fan along with a window air conditioning unit to help in spreading cooled air around the home, instead of letting the air conditioning go full blast throughout the day.
Additionally, the energy regulatory body calls for the proper maintenance of air conditioning systems. As it points out, a poorly maintained system can lead to inefficiencies that will diminish its cooling capabilities. This will then result in higher energy consumption as the system has to work harder to provide the necessary cooling.
As part of AC maintenance, the Department of Energy website advises hiring a professional to do the necessary repairs. Ramsey or Coon Rapids, MN AC repair specialists like those at Liberty Comfort Systems are well-versed with all the latest information about air conditioning technology. They can diagnose any problem one might encounter and fix it in the most cost-effective way possible.
Additionally, there will come a time when homeowners have to decide between repair and replacement. The Department of Energy says that an old system, or one that is frequently breaking down may just have to be replaced. Coon Rapids or Ramsey, MN AC repair professionals can inspect a system, and check if, indeed, the time has come for a replacement.
Cutting down on energy consumption through the proper use and maintenance of air conditioners can go a long way. However, if a replacement is inevitable, AC experts can help determine the right size and type of air conditioners for a home that can result in substantial energy savings.
(Source: Tips: Air Conditioners, ENERGY.GOV, July 20, 2014)
