Heating and cooling bills can make up over half of your total utility expenses, according to Department of Energy reports. Air Woodlands A/C & Heating has put together a list of easy, no-cost ways to improve air conditioning efficiency in your home to help you get the most from your system while controlling your expenses.

1. Clean around outdoor condenser unit. Your outdoor unit will work most efficiently if it is clean and clear of debris. A more thorough, in-depth cleaning should be performed by a professional. If you are ever unsure, please call Air Woodlands A/C & Heating (281)367-8135, we will be happy to come out and help you.

2 .Vacuum indoor vents and keep vents clear. You can vacuum/dust debris away from your indoor supply vents and return air grill to help maintain steady airflow from your system. Also, be sure you don’t have any items or tall furniture blocking your vents, they need to have a clear flow path. 

3. Increase your thermostat by a few degrees. Typically, adjusting temperatures 3 – 6 degrees (down in winter, up in summer) can help save money and energy. With a programmable thermostat, you can automatically adjust the temperature for different times of the day or during times you are going to be away from home for several hours.

4. Keep lamps and other heat producing appliances away from your thermostat. Having heat producing appliances near your thermostat will tell it that the air in your home needs to be cooled more, causing the system to run longer and work harder than it may need to.

5. Keep curtains and blinds closed in the heat of the day. When direct sun hits the windows in your home, keeping your curtains or blinds closed can keep some of the heat from warming the inside of your home.

6. Avoid using your dryer and oven in the hottest hours of the day. Running your dryer will cause warm air to be drawn into your home and using your oven will add additional warm air to your home, causing your air conditioner to have to work harder.

7. Insulate any exposed ductwork. Make sure ductwork that runs through an unconditioned space is properly sealed so it doesn’t leak any of your conditioned air. You can fix visual leaks with a specialized duct-sealing tape that is UL 181-rated, but be sure a professional also checks the ductwork during your next scheduled maintenance visit. It’s also recommend that your ductwork be insulated using the proper thickness duct insulating material. Again, if you are ever unsure, please call Air Woodlands A/C & Heating (281)367-8135.

You don't always have to spend a lot of money to maintain the investment you've made in your central air conditioning system.Understanding the different parts of your HVAC system and keeping it running efficiently will keep your system in top working condition for when you need it most.