Keeping Your Air Conditioning Eco-Friendly

It’s July, and summer is now at its peak, especially in Southern California. With the rising temperatures, it’s pretty obvious that you are going to be looking for ways to keep cool while indoors. The main way is by air conditioning. However, air conditioning is one of the biggest energy guzzlers there is. According to the Department of Energy, air conditioners use about 6% of all electricity used in the United States. Due to this, nearly 117 metric tons of carbon dioxide are released into the air each year.

While it is important to keep cool, you can also help reduce your carbon footprint. If you’re looking for where to start, here are some ways to make your air conditioning more eco-friendly:

1. Maintain a Constant Temperature

Maintaining a constant temperature needs a little effort from your AC unit to achieve comfort in your home. That means reducing the number of heat sources around and inside your house. Using landscaping or even curtains to block sunlight will minimize heating to help keep your home cooler. You can also use alternatives such as microwaves, Nu-waves, in order to help cool your residence down.

2. Installing a Two-Stage AC System

When installing a new air conditioner or replacing your old unit, consider going for a two-stage air conditioner. Generally, single-stage air conditioners run at one speed, providing more cooling, which adds money to your electric bill. On the other hand, a two-stage air conditioning unit uses a two-speed compressor that can easily tailor the cooling needs of your home.

3. Air Seal Your Property

Air sealing refers to preventing air exchange between the air outside and the air inside your home. Maintaining an enclosed environment indoors will prevent your HVAC unit from working more than necessary to maintain a cool home.

Although you need some ventilation to enjoy high-quality indoor air, the ventilation offered by the roof ventilation system is enough. That means that you need to consider keeping your doors and windows closed during hot days, instead of opening them to catch a breeze. But if you prefer having moving air for enhanced comfort, you can utilize an overhead fan; it’ll also boost the cooling capacity of your air conditioner. The more consistent your indoor temperatures remain, the easier it’ll be for your HVAC unit to cool your residential property while using less energy.

4. Change Your Air Filters Frequently

One of the biggest causes of an underperforming air conditioner is a dirty air filter. You should check your air filters for debris and dirt at least once a month. If you cannot see some light passing through it, chances are the filter is dirty, causing it to block airflow. Generally, high-quality air filters can last between two and three months, but some can even last for one year. Checking your air filters every couple of weeks is an excellent way to make sure that your air conditioner is continually operating at maximum efficiency.

5. Inspecting Your Ductwork for Leaks

Your ductwork is one of the common leaky areas in your HVAC system. Damaged or unsealed ducts cause air leaks, which can lead to a 25% energy loss. Inspect your ductwork and air vents to make sure that there are no leaks or blockages that can hinder proper airflow to each room in your house. An HVAC professional can also inspect your ductwork, clean them thoroughly, and repair all the areas where the air is leaking in or out.

6. Cleaning the Coils of the Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor unit can get a little bit dirty, but too much buildup can interfere with your air conditioner’s ideal functioning. Therefore, it is essential to check your air conditioner’s outdoor unit for excess dirt, too. As the system’s fan pulls in air, the outdoor unit also pulls in some debris, which can significantly impair the efficiency of your AC system. Check on the unit’s coils every month and ensure that there is no debris or dirt stuck on your air conditioner’s outdoor unit. If your coils require deep cleaning and you are not comfortable doing it, you can consult your HVAC company.

Window air conditioners vs. portable air conditioners - CNET

7. Install a Programmable Thermostat

If you invest in a programmable or smart thermostat, however, you do not have to worry about adjusting your temps! You only need to program the device to adjust itself so that you can continually save money and energy. You can easily set the temperatures based on your habits and the times you are usually at home. That will help you avoid wasting energy cooling or heating your home when you are not there.

One of the biggest concerns of many homeowners worldwide is making their residences as environmentally friendly as possible. Even though there are many ways to make your home more eco-friendly, the best approach is to engage in air conditioner maintenance. Ensure that your air conditioning system runs efficiently to help you save on energy costs and minimize your carbon footprint.

Earthwise Hauling is dedicated to creating a more eco-friendly and sustainable Southern California. Earthwise Hauling services Laguna Beach, the remainder of Orange County, and many other local areas, including Long Beach.