How to make an Air Conditioner Efficient? {13 Ways}
Are you looking for ways to make your air conditioner more efficient? Running an inefficient air conditioner can be costly, and it may not cool your home properly. But there are simple steps you can take to make your air conditioner more efficient.
And to help you make your air conditioner efficient, I’m going to open things up and let you know the possible reasons for your AC unit’s inefficiency and also give you 13 proven ways to boost your Air Conditioner unit’s efficiency.
Keep reading to learn more about how to make your air conditioner more efficient!
Why does an Air Conditioner become inefficient?
It’s no wonder that air conditioners can become inefficient over time. After all, any machine that is used regularly will eventually show signs of wear and tear.
But why exactly does an air conditioner become inefficient? Here, we’ll take a look at the most common reasons why an air conditioner can become inefficient over time and a further look at how to prevent this from happening.
#1 The build-up of dirt and dust
One of the main reasons an air conditioner can become inefficient is due to a build-up of dirt and dust in the unit. Over time, this can build up and block important components such as the condenser, evaporator and cooling coils.
This means that the system will not be able to cool the air properly, resulting in less efficient performance.
#2 Refrigerant leaks
When refrigerant leaks from your air conditioner, it can cause inefficiency. Refrigerant is what helps keep your air conditioner cool, so when it’s low, the cooling process won’t be as effective.
To identify a refrigerant leak, you may notice these:
- Warm air coming from the vents: If you notice that the air coming from the vents is not as cold as it should be, it could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This can be caused by a hole or crack in the refrigerant line, which allows the coolant to escape and reduces its effectiveness.
- Frost or ice build-up on the refrigerant lines: If you see frost or ice build-up on the refrigerant lines, it could be a sign that the refrigerant is leaking. This can occur if the refrigerant pressure is too low, which can cause the refrigerant to escape through the lines and create frost or ice as it comes into contact with the air.
- Increased energy bills: A refrigerant leak can cause your air conditioning system to work harder and use more energy to try and maintain the desired temperature. This can lead to an increase in your energy bills.
- Strange noises: If you hear hissing, bubbling, or gurgling noises coming from your air conditioning unit, it could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. These noises may be caused by the refrigerant escaping through a hole or crack in the lines.
- A pungent smell: Refrigerant has a distinct, pungent smell that can be detected if it is leaking. If you notice a strong, chemical smell coming from your air conditioning unit, it could be a sign of a refrigerant leak.
And it is best to have this problem diagnosed and addressed by a professional air conditioning repair technician. If not, you risk further damage to the unit and loss of efficiency.
#3 The deterioration of air filters
One of the primary reasons an air conditioner becomes inefficient over time is due to a worn-out air filter.
The air filter must be changed regularly to keep your air conditioner running at its peak efficiency. Over time, the air filter can become clogged with dust and dirt particles, which will reduce airflow and reduce the efficiency of your unit.
Additionally, it may damage other components of the unit due to increased stress on the system. As a result, you should check and replace your air filter regularly to maintain optimum efficiency.
#4 The dirty fans inside the air conditioner unit
The fans inside an air conditioner unit help to circulate the cool air around the area being cooled. Over time, these fans can become dirty or clogged, reducing airflow and efficiency.
This can be caused by a build-up of dust and dirt, or blocked grills and vents. Additionally, the fan motor itself may wear out, resulting in decreased performance.
#5 Worn out components
One of the biggest causes of air conditioner inefficiency is worn components. As the unit ages, the parts within it may begin to wear out, causing a drop in efficiency.
The compressor is one of the most important components of an air conditioner, and when it starts to break down, the system can become much less efficient. The condenser fan motor is also important, as it helps circulate air around the unit.
Other components such as the evaporator coil and expansion valve can also become damaged or worn out over time.
#6 Incorrect size
Air conditioners need to be the right size to function properly. If they are too small, they will not be able to adequately cool the space, causing an inefficient unit to work harder and consume more energy to provide adequate cooling.
On the other hand, if they are too large, they will not be able to cycle long enough to remove enough moisture from the air. This can cause your air conditioner to freeze or blow hot air, both of which reduce its efficiency.
Be sure to properly size your air conditioner for your home before installation so it will run efficiently for years to come.
#7 Using the air conditioner in extremely hot or humid conditions
Using the air conditioner in very hot or humid conditions can put too much strain on the unit. This is because the air conditioner will work harder to cool the air and keep your home comfortable.
The unit may be less efficient, as it has to work harder than normal to cool the air. Also, the unit may be more prone to breakdown due to the stress of working in such extreme conditions.
#8 Age of the unit
The age of your air conditioner can also contribute to its inefficiency. As your air conditioner gets older, it may begin to lose its effectiveness due to normal wear and tear.
Over time, components inside the unit begin to break down, reducing cooling performance. This can be especially common if your air conditioner is more than 7 years old.
13 Ways to Make Your Air Conditioner Efficient
Improving the efficiency of your air conditioner is one of the best ways to save money and energy.
By following these 13 simple tips, you can get the most out of your air conditioner and enjoy comfortable temperatures in your home without breaking the bank.
Let’s get to the point!
#1 Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is one of the easiest and most effective ways to make your air conditioner more efficient.
With a programmable thermostat, you can easily control the temperature in your home without having to manually adjust settings. This helps ensure the temperature stays within your desired range and minimizes energy usage, which leads to lower bills.
Programmable thermostats are designed to be easy to use, with simple interfaces and helpful features like timers, holiday settings, and pre-programmed temperature adjustments. You can also choose between different models with different features such as digital displays and touchscreen interfaces.
When setting your programmable thermostat, keep in mind that keeping the temperature at 78 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and raising it slightly when you’re away can help reduce energy use. This temperature is also recommended by directenergy.com and Centralhtg.com. You can also program the thermostat to turn off when you’re not home or when you’re sleeping.
#2 Regular maintenance
One of the most important things you can do to keep your air conditioner running efficiently is to perform regular maintenance. This includes professional inspection and cleaning of the unit at least once a year, according to Daikin-ce.com.
During an inspection, a technician can spot any potential problems before they become bigger problems, ensuring that your system is working properly.
The technician should also check refrigerant levels, inspect electrical components and lubricate any moving parts. Additionally, they should check the blower motor and fan belt to make sure they are in good condition. Performing regular maintenance on your air conditioner is one of the best ways to keep it running efficiently.
#3 Replace dirty air filters
One of the simplest ways to make your air conditioner more efficient is to change the air filter regularly. Dirty air filters will block airflow, making it difficult for your air conditioner to efficiently cool your home.
It is recommended that you replace the filter once a month or as often as needed depending on the amount of dust and debris in your home.
When changing the air filter, be sure to buy the right size filter and replace it properly. Also, be sure to check your owner’s manual to see how often you should change the filter.
#4 Use Fans to Help Cool the Room
Using a fan to cool a room is a great way to increase the efficiency of your air conditioner. Ceiling fans and swinging stand fans can help move air around the room, reducing the amount of work the air conditioner has to do. It can reduce the load on air conditioners and save energy.
When you use the fans with your air conditioner, you must turn them off when you leave the room. This will help keep the room cool and prevent you from wasting energy. You should also make sure the fan isn’t blowing directly at you, as this can make you feel cooler than you are.
Fans are a great way to keep a room cool without having to turn on your air conditioner. They can help make your air conditioner more efficient and reduce energy costs. Plus, they can add a nice touch of ambiance to any room!
#5 Fix leaks in the system
Leaks in the air conditioning system can waste a lot of energy and make the AC less efficient. To prevent this, it is important to regularly inspect your AC unit for any signs of damage or leakage. Common signs of a leak include:
- Strange noises
- Water pooling around the unit
- An increase in your energy bill
- Poor cooling
If you spot a leak, it’s best to call a professional to fix it. A qualified technician will know how to locate the source of the leak and use the right materials and techniques to properly repair it. If you attempt to do this yourself, you run the risk of further damaging the AC and making the problem worse.
Repairing a leak may involve sealing cracks, adding insulation, and replacing hoses. The cost of these repairs varies depending on the severity of the leak, but it is generally well worth the investment to improve the efficiency of your AC unit.
#6 Keep the Area Around the Unit clean and clear
Maintaining the area around your air conditioner is essential to its efficiency. For your AC to run efficiently, make sure that the area around it is free from debris, dust and dirt. Remove any plants, leaves, or other objects that may block the vent and prevent airflow.
Also be sure to inspect your AC unit for any obstructions that may be causing it to run inefficiently. Clean off any dirt and dust from the outside of the unit. Keeping the area around the unit clean and clear can help increase airflow to your air conditioner, resulting in better performance.
#7 Seal Leaks Around Doors and Windows
One of the easiest and most effective ways to increase the efficiency of your air conditioner is to seal any leaks around doors and windows. Air leaks account for up to 30% of energy loss in an average home, so it’s important to make sure no air escapes.
You can check for air leaks around your windows and doors by feeling for drafts or using an incense stick to detect air flow. If you notice any drafts, use caulk or weatherstripping to seal the gaps. This will help keep cool air inside your home and prevent warm outside air from coming in.
#8 Use a dehumidifier
Using a dehumidifier in your home can be a great way to improve the efficiency of your air conditioner.
Dehumidifiers help remove moisture from the air, which can reduce the amount of cooling your air conditioner produces.
This can reduce the load on your AC unit and help save energy and money. Additionally, dehumidifiers can help improve indoor air quality by reducing dust and allergens, as well as inhibiting the growth of mold and mildew.
In addition, the dehumidifier also helps prevent window condensation. To ensure optimal performance, be sure to clean or replace the filters in your dehumidifier regularly.
#9 Use Curtains or Blinds
Curtains and blinds are great for keeping the heat out of your home during the summer months. By blocking direct sunlight from entering your windows, you can reduce the amount of heat that enters your home and reduce the need for your air conditioner to work harder.
When you install curtains or blinds, make sure they fit snugly around the window frame and overlap to block as much sunlight as possible. Also, be sure to turn them off during the hottest part of the day to maximize their effectiveness.
#10 Use zoning system
Zoning systems are a great way to make your air conditioner more efficient. Zoning systems use dampers in your ducts that can be opened and closed to control airflow to each room in your home. Dampers help maintain a comfortable temperature in each room while saving energy and money by only using the AC when necessary.
Zoning systems can help you cool individual rooms without overworking your air conditioning system, saving you energy and money. By dividing your home into zones, you can control which rooms are being cooled and how much air is being used.
You can even program your zoning system to take advantage of natural cooling and heating at different times of the day. Zoning systems are easy to install, but they require professional installation. Be sure to consult with a qualified HVAC technician before attempting to install a zoning system on your own.
#11 Upgrade Your Insulation
If you want your air conditioner to run efficiently, you need to make sure that your home is well insulated. Poor insulation leads to energy loss and inefficient air conditioning. By upgrading your insulation, you can ensure that your air conditioner is working as efficiently as possible.
You can check the insulation in your home by looking for areas where heat is escaping, such as around windows or doors, or where cold air is entering, such as through cracks in the walls. If you notice any areas of concern, you should contact a professional to evaluate the insulation in your home and make any necessary repairs.
#12 Take Advantage of Natural Ventilation
Taking advantage of natural ventilation is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to make your air conditioner more efficient.
Natural ventilation uses outside air to cool your home instead of relying on the energy you use to run your air conditioner.
It works by opening windows and doors in strategic locations throughout the home to allow cool air to flow through. This helps keep the air cooler and reduces the strain on your air conditioner. To ensure that you are taking full advantage of natural ventilation, you should consider investing in an exhaust fan or window fan to improve airflow.
Additionally, you can install an awning or louvers to protect your home from direct sunlight and reduce the amount of heat absorbed into your home. Taking advantage of natural ventilation is a great way to keep your home cool without having to run your air conditioner too often or at high temperatures.
#13 Upgrade to a more efficient air conditioner
Upgrading your air conditioner to a more efficient model can help you save money on energy bills and keep your home cooler. Modern air conditioners are designed to use less energy while providing more cooling power.
Before purchasing an air conditioner, make sure you research the different models and look for an Energy Star-rated unit.
When it comes to choosing an air conditioner, consider the size of your home, the type of windows, the climate you live in, and other factors. It’s important to buy the right size unit for your home – one that is too small will not cool it effectively and one that is too large will use too much energy.
You might also consider getting a programmable thermostat or smart thermostat, which allows you to adjust the temperature from your smartphone.
And be sure to go with quieter portable AC units or window unit. Otherwise, you will have problems with the noise level. By the way, the noise level of air conditioners may be quieter but not much quieter than quieter units.
My Final Thoughts on How to Increase Efficiency of an AC unit’s?
Air conditioning efficiency is an important part of home comfort. Taking the time to make sure your AC unit is running at its peak performance can save you money on your energy bills and keep your home comfortable year-round.
Simple steps like using a fan to help cool the room, keeping the area around the unit clean and clear, changing filters regularly, and sealing any leaks around doors and windows can make a big difference.
Upgrading your insulation, installing zoning systems, taking advantage of natural ventilation and upgrading to a more efficient AC unit can further increase the efficiency of your AC system. By following these tips, you can enjoy a comfortable, energy efficient home all year long.
David Jack
David Jack is a veteran when it comes to air conditioners, he love helping people find solutions to their problems with AC units. His specialty is helping people find the right Air-Conditioner for their needs, whether that means replacing a broken unit or adding on to an existing system. He is also great at diagnosing problems and fixing them quickly. He learned this from my father Jack Smith who was an air conditioner repairer, he has 2 years of experience in this field.
