Routine air conditioning maintenance is the best way to prevent breakdowns of your AC system while also extending the overall system's lifespan and boosting its efficiency. Regardless of whether you are looking to take better care of your AC equipment or you would like to lower your monthly energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint, the following tips will boost the energy efficiency of your residential air conditioning unit.

Inspect the Air Filter on a Regular Basis

Once a month, you should check the AC filter. Rinse the filter thoroughly to remove any built-up dust, dirt, and other particles and debris that can result in clogs. The system will work harder to produce cool air when the filter requires cleaning or replacement.

Close the Curtains and Switch on the Ceilings Fans

When you use your ceiling fans in combination with your air conditioning unit, you won't use nearly as much energy, you can reduce the stress that is placed on your air conditioning unit, and you can increase the amount of cool air circulating throughout the home. Make sure that the curtains are closed, especially on sun-facing windows, to keep as much of the heat out of the house as possible.

Invest in a Dehumidifier

Rather than making your air conditioning unit work overtime to decrease the humidity levels in the home, purchase a dehumidifier to remove the moisture out of the air. As the dehumidifier works on the humidity in the home, you will be able to turn up the thermostat, which ensures that your AC is working nearly as hard each day and lowering your utility bill.

Insulate Any Exposed Ducting

If you have any ductwork that is exposed in the home, it is recommended to add foam sheets or insulating blankets to the ducting so that the cool air is contained within the ductwork as it travels throughout. Make sure to regularly check for leaks in the ductwork, and if any leaks are found, use duct-sealing tape to patch them to avoid losses of cool air and an increase in your energy bills.

Schedule Maintenance Services

Your AC system should be professionally serviced at least once annually. At this appointment, an air conditioning professional will inspect and clean your AC unit thoroughly, in addition to making any repairs that are found during the inspection that interfere with the system's efficiency. If small problems are addressed when they are found, it prevents them from being much larger, more serious, and more expensive problems that could result in a breakdown of the unit.

If you would like to learn more, get in touch with an air conditioning contractor in your area today.