Inefficient Air Conditioning? Potential Causes To Consider

Over the past year, rolling black- and brownouts have become more common in dense population areas of the country where demand for electrical power continues to increase. This news has since caused many homeowners to pay more attention to potential repair issues that could raise their home's energy consumption, especially for high usage appliances such as their home's HVAC system. If you are also concerned about your AC system's energy consumption and possible inefficiencies, this information can help. 

Filters and thermostat 

Inefficient AC system operation due to filter and thermostat issues occur quickly but are also two of the easiest problems to address. Forgetting or postponing regular filter changes and thermostat setting issues can force the central air conditioning system to cycle too frequently and make it use more energy to cool the home. 

Homeowners can use apps, calendar reminders, or filter delivery services to help them remember to change the filter more frequently. If reprogramming the thermostat does not help reduce system operating time and result in more efficiency, homeowners should consider repairs or replacement of their current thermostat. 

Leaking ducts

Another potential reason for inefficiencies in residential air conditioning systems is air leaks in ducts that allow the cooled air to escape before it reaches its final destination. To find duct damage or leaks, homeowners should carefully examine them for holes or loose seams when the AC system is running.

Small leaks may be temporarily repaired with special duct tape for HVAC use but more serious leaks will need to be professionally repaired. Homeowners with older ducts may also want to ask their AC professional whether having their ducts cleaned, replaced, or insulated could help their system operate more efficiently. 

Exterior component issues

Homeowners interested in a more efficient, less costly air conditioning experience will also want to examine the exterior components of their HVAC system on a regular basis. Icing on the coils or coolant lines, accumulations of dirt and grass clippings, and rodent damage are all problems that could result in a loss of cooling efficiency and comfort within the home. While homeowners may be able to clean away accumulated debris on the exterior unit of the air conditioning system, rodent damage to wiring or icing issues will require professional evaluation and repair. 

Homeowners who are interested in the benefits of a more efficient air conditioning system should also consider having an AC repair contractor examine their current system and determine what repairs or upgrades are needed to help them more easily reach their energy usage goals. 

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