Top 5 Ways to Improve Your Air Conditionerโs Efficiency This Summer
In Sacramento, where summer temperatures often reach above 100ยฐF, air conditioners can turn into one of the biggest contributors to your electricity bill.
As of 2024, summer electricity use per person in U.S. homes has nearly doubled compared to the early 1970s or 80s. Can you imagine how much more energy we now invest in staying cool? This shows just how hard your AC has to work to keep you comfortable.
However, smart steps, like scheduling regular AC Maintenance in Sacramento, can make a big difference. Seasonal inspection and service improve your AC's performance and keep your home cool without costing you unnecessary repairs. So, if youโre tired of high energy bills and still canโt get the refreshing comfort you expect from your AC, youโre in the right place.
We understand how your air conditioner works, and in this blog, weโll share some practical tips to help you get the best performance from it.ย
5 Most Effective Ways to Improve Your Air Conditionerโs Efficiency
1. Change Your Air Filter Regularly
โIndustry pros like Energy Star recommend replacing filters every 1-3 months, depending on your homeโs conditions.โ
Why Is It Important?
- Dirty filters slow down airflow. When the air filter gets clogged, your AC has to work much harder to push air through. This uses more energy and puts extra strain on your system.
- Clean filters save energy and protect your system. Replacing filters regularly maintains proper airflow. This improves your AC's performance, cuts energy use, and prevents dust buildup that can lead to costly repairs.
How Can We Help?
During our AC Maintenance service in Sacramento, our technicians make sure your filters are clean and replaced when needed. So it can keep you cool even in the scorching summer.
| Tip - โSet a filter-reminder on your phone and mark it as a mini-maintenance task.โ |
2. Book Routine Maintenance Checks
โRegular inspections keep your system running smoothly, help avoid expensive repairs, and can increase your ACโs lifespan.โ
Why Is It Important?
During a routine AC tune-up, a technician will -
- Clean the coils so heat can move out of your home more easily.
- Check refrigerant levels to confirm proper cooling, and inspect electrical parts for safety and performance.ย
This kind of care spots small problems early before they turn into big, expensive repairs.
How Can We Help?
Our AC Repair in Sacramento service includes a full system check to keep everything running at its best. We check for worn-out parts and hidden problems to keep your AC running smoothly, so you stay cool and donโt face surprise breakdowns during the hottest days.
| Note - โDonโt let an AC breakdown ruin your summer. Let Ace Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning help you with timely AC care.โ |
3. Use Ceiling Fans & Smart Thermostats to Your Advantage
โAccording to the U.S. Department of Energy, using a ceiling fan lets you raise the thermostat setting by about 4 ยฐF without reducing comfort.โ
Why Is It Important?
- Ceiling fans donโt lower the temperature, but they create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel several degrees cooler. This means you can set your thermostat a bit higher without losing comfort, and your AC also doesnโt have to work as hard.
- Smart thermostats are more advanced. They learn your schedule, adjust cooling automatically, and prevent your AC from running unnecessarily when youโre not home. Over time, this can save you a good amount on your energy bills.
How Can We Help?
We recommend and install smart thermostats that work best with your cooling system. Weโll also guide you on using ceiling fans effectively to circulate air and maximize comfort, so you get the most cooling for the least energy use.
| Tip - โSet your ceiling fan to spin counterclockwise in summer for the best cooling effect.โ |
4. Seal Leaks & Insulate
โSealing leaks can cut heating and cooling costs by 5-30% each year, keeping more money in your pocket and more cool air in your home.โ
Why Is It Important?
When your home has gaps around doors, windows, or in the attic, cooled air escapes and warm air seeps in, putting unnecessary stress on your AC. As a result, it drives up energy bills and causes inconsistent temperatures in rooms.
But sealing those leaks and adding proper insulation turns things around by saving you on heating and cooling costs.
How Can We Help?
During our maintenance schedule, our technicians check your AC and also look at how well your home is sealed. We check for visible gaps, seal duct leaks, use weather-stripping, and apply insulation where needed.ย
These steps reduce energy waste, lower your bills, and make your home more comfortable without needing a more powerful AC.
| Tip - โFocus on common trouble spots like attics, crawlspaces, and window frames. Sealing and insulating these areas often delivers the biggest results.โ |
5. Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clear & Provide Shade
โKeeping the outdoor unit clean helps maintain peak efficiency and lower energy bills.โ
Why Is It Important?
- Your outdoor unit needs plenty of airflow to release heat effectively. If itโs blocked by leaves, dirt, or overgrown plants, it has to work harder, wasting energy and wearing out faster.ย
- Direct sunlight also heats the unit, reducing efficiency. A shaded, clear space helps it stay cooler and run more efficiently.
How Can We Help?
- We clean around your outdoor unit, remove debris, and make sure thereโs enough space for proper airflow.ย
- We can also recommend smart shading solutions, like a strategically placed awning or shrubs that wonโt block airflow but will keep the sun off your unit.
| Tip - โGive your outdoor unit at least two feet of clear space on all sides, and keep it shaded without blocking the airflow.โ |
Other AC Efficiency Hacks
We donโt want you to suffer because of a poorly functioning AC. Thatโs why we suggest a few bonus tips you can easily put into action.
- Blinds or curtains must be closed during peak sun hours - This keeps heat from sneaking in and making your AC work harder.
- Cook smart - Use ovens, stoves, or dryers in the evening, or switch to outdoor grilling to avoid adding heat indoors.
- Add shade to your homeโs roof or exposed ductwork - A cooler roof and ducts mean less heat for your AC to fight.
- Limit the use of heat-generating electronics - Turn off unused TVs, computers, or lights during the day to reduce indoor heat.
- Ventilate at night when itโs cooler - If outdoor temperatures drop, open windows and let fresh, cool air in before the next dayโs heat.
| Need AC Installations in Sacramento? Call Now |
Takeaway
You donโt always need an AC replacement to stay cool in summer. Applying such smart strategies can help improve your systemโs efficiency, cut costs, and extend its life.
But if your AC still struggles to keep up, it might be time to consider professional AC repair or even a new AC installation in Sacramento to restore comfort and peace of mind.
Power Up Your ACโs Efficiency and Make Your Home Comfortable With Ace Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning
When it comes to your air conditioner's maintenance and repair, you need someone trustworthy and experienced. At Ace Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning, weโve been keeping Sacramento homes cool for over 50 years, and that experience shows in every job we do.
Our skilled technicians use proven best practices and the latest energy-saving tools to keep your system performing at its best. From AC maintenance and repairs to new installations, we offer top-quality service at fair, upfront prices.
Call us at 916-455-4548 for regular inspection or in any emergency; we even offer same-day services!