In summer, home cooling typically accounts for up to half your energy costs. If your a/c equipment is more than 12 years old, consider replacing it -- before it breaks down -- to save money on utility bills, allow time for price research, and ensure your family’s comfort.

Save money on the purchase price of air conditioning units by taking advantage of promotional rebates offered by a/c equipment manufacturers. In addition, many high-efficiency systems may also qualify for a Federal tax credit of up to 30% of the purchase price for the equipment, up to a maximum credit of $1,500.  For more information, visit www.energystar.gov.

Replacing Your Central Air Conditioner

Considering energy-efficient air conditioners is a great first step toward lowering your energy usage—and your bills! What should you keep in mind as you shop?

• Always select ENERGY STAR qualified equipment. Although upfront costs can be higher, the long-term savings difference is regained with lower energy usage. ENERGY STAR central air conditioners are the most efficient models on the market.
• The EnergyGuide label with a high SEER.  The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER, measures the energy efficiency of central air conditioners.  SEER ratings allow consumers to compare operating costs of various cooling systems.  The higher the SEER rating the more efficient the air conditioner runs, lowering your energy use.
• Capacity that fits your needs.  The capacity of a central air conditioning unit is an important factor to consider.  You need an air conditioner that is neither too small nor too large for your home’s cooling needs.  A qualified heating and cooling contractor can make the necessary calculations for your home. Don’t assume the new unit should be exactly the same as your existing unit, which may not have been properly sized in the first place.
•  Replacement coils.  To maximize the efficiency of your new cooling system, replace both the indoor and the outdoor compressor coils when replacing an older central air conditioning unit, to ensure they’re properly matched for maximum efficiency, comfort and dependability.
• Purchase high efficiency. Purchase the highest efficiency cooling equipment that you can afford.  Look for central air conditioners with a SEER rating of at least 14 and the ENERGY STAR label for optimum efficiency.
• Install a programmable thermostat.  You can save energy on heating and cooling your home by turning your thermostat back 10 to 15 percent for 8 hours or more.  A programmable thermostat sets the temperature according to a pre-set schedule.  When shopping for a programmable thermostat, look for the ENERGY STAR label and select a model that offers a manual override option that allows you to adjust the settings without affecting the rest of the pre-set programming. 
• Proper installation is critical. Improper installation can lower efficiency by up to 30 percent, increase utility bills and possibly reduce the life of the equipment. Ask your contractor to verify that your system is properly charged with the correct level of refrigerant and that the airflow is within the manufacturer’s specifications.

Maintaining Your Central Air Conditioner

Keep your cooling system at peak performance by having your central air conditioner inspected annually before the cooling season begins.  Call a local contractor to schedule an inspection in early spring.

Here are some tasks you may be able to perform yourself.

• Clean or replace the air filter regularly.  Filters reduce the amount of dust and dirt that flow through your ductwork and into your home.  Dirty filters can increase your energy costs and damage your equipment, leading to early failure.
• Follow manufacturers’ guidelines.  For peak energy performance, always operate and maintain your heating system according to manufacturers’ guidelines.
• Check your outdoor condenser unit for dirt and debris.  Remove leaves, grass and debris from the outside condenser monthly during warm months.
• Keep the outdoor air conditioning unit out of the sun.  Locate your outdoor central air conditioning unit out of direct sunlight and avoid the south and west sides of the house, if possible. Placing the unit in direct sunlight causes it to work harder to cool your home.
• Clear and clean the drain line.  Your central a/c system includes a tube that drains off any condensation.  Check the drain periodically for any algae growth or blockage. If you see anything in the drain, remove the drain tube at the furnace and clean it by pouring a simple half bleach and half water solution through it.

Save energy tips

Reduce your energy use and save money cooling your home by following these tips:

• Set your thermostat as high as comfortably possible in the summer.
• Use an exhaust fan to blow hot air out of your kitchen while cooling.  You’ll save more in cooling costs than the electricity to run the fan.
• Avoid activities that add heat and humidity to your home during the hottest parts of the day, such as:
  • Cook outside on the grill instead of using the oven whenever possible.
  • Run the dishwasher in the evening when the outside air is cooler.
  • Let dishes air dry in the dishwasher rather than using the drying feature.
• Minimize the number of times that outside doors are opened and closed.  Hot air from outside enters your home every time the doors open.
• Keep window coverings closed during the day to prevent solar gain.
• Plant shade trees to block the heat from the sun.
• Use ceiling fans to provide additional cooling and better air circulation.  Run the blades clockwise (downward) to cool more efficiently.  Ceiling fans cool only people, not the room so remember to turn ceiling fans off when you leave the room.