July Energy Tips

Improve Your Air Conditioner's Efficiency

Air conditioners use a lot of electricity, consuming the most in a summertime heat wave. Without regular service to your air conditioner, its efficiency can fall by as much as half, especially when it works overtime in the summer heat. However, proper maintenance and repair on your air conditioner will save you money and can extend its life for roughly 15 years.

Air conditioners are complicated and require specialized tools to service them. It is best to hire an air-conditioning technician. An annual tune-up of your air conditioner averages approximately $50 to $100, but can reduce your cooling costs by 5 percent or more.

Here are some maintenance tips that should be performed by a professional:

• Inspect the ductwork for loose joints and other leaks.
• Air leaks waste energy and should be sealed with duct mastic, not duct tape.
• Check hose connections for leaks, and make sure the condensation tube is draining freely.
• Clean the blower so that it can move air more efficiently.
• Oil the motors, and check the belts for tightness and wear.
• Verify the airflow by measurement. Improper airflow can affect efficiency.
• Clean the indoor evaporator and outdoor condenser coil. If it doesn’t have an access panel, have one installed.
• Check the refrigerant charge and adjust if needed. Remember that the law requires refrigerant to be recaptured when units are recharged.
• Straighten any bent films on the condenser and evaporator coils.
• Inspect the electric terminals.
• Make sure to clean and tighten the connections.
• Inspect the thermostat to ensure that it provides a reliable reading.
• Install a programmable thermostat to adjust your home’s temperature automatically. This thermostat increases the temperature setting while you’re gone and then returns the home to a more comfortable setting before you return.

Source: North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives and NRECA