When the warmest months hit, your air conditioning system becomes essential—but it also becomes a major contributor to your heating and cooling bills, often making up over half of a household’s total utility expenses. That’s why it’s smart to focus on ways to keep utilities as low as possible.
As the property owner, performing essential maintenance on your air conditioning unit and following a few simple strategies can help you optimize your air conditioning system and keep your expenses under control.
Perform essential HVAC maintenance regularly
One of the best ways to increase your air conditioning unit’s efficiency is to clean it properly at least once a year. If your unit sits on the ground, clear away any leaves or debris that may have fallen on or around it. You can also clean your unit’s condenser coils and drain lines yourself or have a professional do it.
Most air conditioning units have a drain by the indoor cooling coil, which is usually located near your furnace. You can easily clear it by pouring one cup of bleach down the drain and then rinsing it with a gallon of water.
Prevent the HVAC from working harder than it should
To further optimize your air conditioning system, ensure your home’s airflow is unobstructed. Start by clearing items away from your indoor vents and vacuuming them regularly. That helps your AC distribute cold air more evenly.
Keep interior doors open to let air flow freely. Redirect airflow by adjusting vents in rooms you use less. During the hottest parts of the day, close your blinds or curtains to reduce heat from the sun. Also, check and install good quality weather-stripping around doors and windows to prevent air leaks and keep the cold air circulating inside.
Adjust your thermostat for greater efficiency. Just raising your thermostat by two or three degrees can noticeably lower your bills. Try setting it to 78 degrees at home, and even higher when you’re out. Adding a fan with your air conditioning—like a ceiling fan or table fan—will circulate the air faster, keeping things cool while using less energy. This combo can boost your air conditioning unit’s functionality without sacrificing comfort.
Avoid adding extra heat sources
Your air conditioning unit can work overtime if extra heat builds up indoors. Activities like cooking, baking with the oven, or using the clothes dryer during the hottest part of the day can spike your cooling needs. Plan to use your appliances in the morning or at night instead.
If you need to cook during the day, turn on an exhaust fan to pull the heat out of the house, or use a small fan to move warm air away from the kitchen. Small actions like this make a big difference in managing indoor temperature.
At Real Property Management Cornerstone, we’re committed to maintaining all our rental properties, including making sure air conditioning systems work at their best. Our team works hard to provide a comfortable living experience for each and every resident. If you’re seeking trusted property management services in Wayland, contact us online or give us a call at 269-888-5717. We’re happy to assist!
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