The hot summer sun and heat are the best parts of summer. However, the heat can be harmful and pose serious health risks because of its extremities. Running your air conditioner all day to keep yourself and your family cool will cause a spike in your electricity bills, so we are here to help you understand that you can pay less and still keep your home cool. Keep your air conditioner going and save money during the process.
The Dangers of Extreme Heat
The effects of rising temperatures and extreme heat in the summer months result in numerous illnesses and deaths each year. Excessive heat can cause people to suffer from heat-related illness, and even death and this happens when the body is unable to properly cool itself. Those who suffer from chronic medical conditions and older adults are at a higher risk for these illnesses.
The human body’s temperature is usually almost always consistent. In a bid to maintain the consistent internal temperature of the body, it works to eliminate the excess heat. When this function of the body fails, then comes the heat-related illnesses.
Humidity and high heat become a dangerous consistency during the summertime. Your body usually cools itself by sweating but on a humid day, sweat does not leave the body as quickly. Therefore, the body is failing to lose heat at a healthy rate. Sweating is not enough during that time to help the body to release heat. This puts you at risk of overheating.
Some heat-related illnesses are namely, heatstroke, heat exhaustion, heat rash and heat cramps.
Heatstroke is one of the most dangerous forms of heat-induced injuries because this can cause damage to your brain. It is seen as a medical emergency and usually comes from the heat cramp or heat exhaustion.
Over-exertion during periods of extremely hot weather are what causes muscle aches and spasms. These are what are known as heat cramps.
Heat Exhaustion is a mild form of shock caused by the body’s loss of fluid and salt. It is typically due to participation in strenuous activity in the heat.
Heat rash affects adults as much as it does babies and it is more prevalent during the hot weather times. When blocked pores trap perspiration under your skin, a heat rash is developed.
How Your Air Conditioning Unit Can Cause High Energy Consumption
Lack of maintenance- here is the thing, it is important to schedule regular a/c maintenance checks for your unit to ensure that all things are always in good running order. An a/c unit that is poorly maintained does not function well and is more prone to system breakdown. The malfunctioning parts are the ones that cause your system to use more electrical energy than needed. Your a/c unit is usually due for maintenance once or twice per year, preferably during the spring to prepare for the summer months. This helps it to be more energy-efficient during the periods of high usage.
Dirty air filters- the free flow of air will be hindered if the unit is clogged with dust, dirt and debris. This causes the unit to take too long to cool your home and it also causes ineffective cooling. Operating a unit with dirty air-filters for months at a time will result in more electrical energy consumption and waste. Replacing air filters every 1-3 months is the easiest form of maintenance that you can do to save yourself from skyrocketing energy bills.
Failing Parts- The proper operation of the unit is all dependent on the condensers, evaporators, motors, and all other mechanical parts. Failure of these components can lead to system inefficiency which is a common cause of high energy consumption.
How To Reduce Energy Waste
Clean or change your air filter- keeping your unit clean can lower your system’s energy consumption by up to 15%. Air filters keep your HVAC system running smoothly by preventing dust from blocking your vents and promoting air circulation. Your system will have to work harder to circulate air if the filters are dirty.
Install a thermostat- thermostats cut energy usage by adjusting temperatures while you are away or asleep. Thermostat placement can play a big part in how well your air conditioner works. If you put it on a wall right next to a hot window, for instance, your air conditioner will use much more power than it needs to because it will think the room is hotter than it actually is.
Seal your windows- your air conditioner will have to work overtime to cool the space if there are leaky areas in the room. It is important to seal areas such as windows where the air can leak through. Your HVAC technician can inspect your property and find and seal open areas.
Use ceiling fans- the ceiling fan works together along the Air conditioner to save on energy and expenses and keep you cool. The ceiling fan aids in the circulation of air which will allow you to raise the thermostat setting without the sacrifice of comfort. It helps the room to feel cooler, so you won’t need to rely only on your air conditioner. This will ultimately decrease your electricity usage.
Ensure Your Air Conditioner is Properly Maintained
Throughout the years of service of an air conditioning unit, the filters, coils, and fans are to be regularly maintained. For your unit to run effectively and efficiently, the unit must undergo regular and consistent maintenance.
A decrease in performance is sure if you neglect to maintain your unit while energy use will increase. You will notice that something is wrong when the unit blows hot air, is not cooling the room any at all or similar happenings.
Clogged, dirty filters block normal airflow and reduce a system's efficiency significantly. With normal airflow obstructed, the air that bypasses the filter may carry dirt directly into the evaporator coil and impair the coil's heat-absorbing capacity.
Some filters are reusable; others must be replaced. Filters are available in different varieties and source of productivities. It is recommended that every month or two months is best to clean or replace your air conditioning filter systems. It is also recommended that this be done during the cool seasons. Filters may need more frequent attention if the air conditioner is in constant use.
The HVAC technicians at Wright’s AC and Heat have the experience and skills needed to repair and maintain your air conditioner to help you save money on your usage. Contact us to schedule an inspection today.
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