Now that your AC unit is on full blast, you may be thinking, how can I get the most out of my system without affecting efficiency and dealing with costly energy bills?
There are several ways to successfully control temperature while maintaining your unit.
Let’s take a look!
How Do I Improve AC Efficiency?
1. Ready, Set Your Thermostat, Go
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, setting your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit can consistently keep your energy cost down, maintain your AC system and still offer an escape from the summer heat. 78 degrees seems pretty high, although that sticky, uncomfortable feeling has to do with humidity levels.
If your space has a high relative humidity, it may be worth investing in a dehumidifier. The EPA recommends a humidity level of 30%-50% during summer months to prevent mold and pests. If 78 seems still seems too toasty, we recommend that you keep your temperature at a consistent level all season long. Frequent temperature adjustments will make your unit work hard day in and day out, which can lead to unnecessary wear.
Learn more about how humidity is measured.
2. Maintain and Gain
It isn’t always our favorite thing to do, but regular maintenance can keep your AC system running at an optimal level and help you save on expensive repairs.
The regular lifespan of a well-maintained AC unit is about 10 years, but if you don’t protect your equipment, you could be looking at a replacement much sooner! Invest in maintenance once a year and make sure to clean your unit on a seasonal basis; dust and residue build up can cause safety issues and unforeseen breakdowns.
3. Fans are Your Friend
It may not seem useful to have a fan in your space when cool air is already pumping out of your AC unit, but fans can allow you to target where you would like cool air to travel. Without a fan, cool air will naturally travel downward. If you want to control the law of thermodynamics, invest in a fan!
Learn more about controlling air flow and efficiency with a fan.
4. Look for Leaks
You may be following all the proper protocols when it comes to your AC system, but if the space you are trying to cool has holes where cool air can escape, your efforts are fruitless!
Cooling a warehouse with old windows or a poorly insulated office? In these situations, loss of cool air and an overworked unit are likely. If you think your space may be the culprit, its time to consider investing a bit more so you can protect your AC system down the road.
5. Use Shade Strategically
Did you know that shade can make an area feel 10-15 degrees cooler? Even though the air temperature is the exact same, there is no solar radiation in the equation.
To keep your AC equipment happy, shade it from those extra rays. If your unit is indoors, make sure to keep extra heat, like lamps or electronics, away from your equipment.
6. Purchase a Temporary AC Unit
Supplemental cooling can be a beneficial energy and money saver if you are looking to control air flow in specific areas for a certain duration of time. As long as you have the right set of systems in place for your space, temporary units may be the answer!
Have a question about temporary AC for your construction site, warehouse, data center, medical facility, or outdoor event?
Priority Rental carries a variety of portable AC units so you can beat the heat this summer at an affordable price.
We deliver all of our units to your job site and offer 24/7 for emergency cooling solutions. To get started, contact us today.