Cool Tips for An Energy Efficient Air Conditioner

If you are not in a pool you are probably in an air conditioned room this time of year. Of course if you are in New England this summer these dreamy hot days are simply a mirage — but I am digressing.

Since heating and cooling one's home costs the average homeowner about $1,000 a year — nearly half the home's total energy bill, we should really look into ways to cut costs and make it more energy efficient. Energy Star, a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy, suggest a few golden rules. Plus, I have added a few myself to ensure a cool, yet energy efficient summer.

• If your central air conditioning unit is more than 12 years old, replacing it with an ENERGY STAR qualified model could cut your cooling costs by 30 percent.
• Yearly tune ups help ensure your AC unit is efficient.
• Regularly vacuum the AC unit to remove dirt, dust and particles on the inside and clean the condenser and evaporator coils.
• Move furniture and drapes away that might be hindering your cool breeze.
• Outside your home, make sure to remove any dirt and debris that might be getting in the way of your AC's efficiency.
• Check to see if there are any air leaks or holes and if so, seal them up.
• Monthly air filter changes are a good idea during high usage months.
• Turn the air conditioner temperature down when you are not around. Timers or programmable thermostats may help with this if you tend to forget.
• Your mom was right. Keep windows and doors shut while the AC is on.

If you are in the market for a new air-conditioner invest in an Energy Star-certified air conditioner that is the right size for your home and install it on the shady side of your home. Look for more efficient air conditioners with higher SEER (season energy efficiency ratio) and EER (energy efficiency ratio) ratings. Also, be on the look out for some tax credits.

Treading Lighter with an energy saving air conditioner,
-Phyllis, Green Expert