11 Air Conditioning Mistakes That Spike Your Bills

Nowadays, more than 90 percent of homes and virtually all businesses in America use air conditioning to beat the summertime heat. In fact, according to statical data from the U.S. Department of Energy, air conditioners use about 6 percent of all the electricity produced in the country. Given the overwhelming prevalence of AC, most people think they know how to maintain their system properly, whether it’s central air, a window unit, or ductless mini splits. But surprisingly, many homeowners fall victim to common mistakes that waste energy, shorten the working lifespan of their air conditioner, and cost money. Contact Alien Air Conditioning and Heating at (602) 824-9494 for more information.

Here are 16 common air-conditioning mistakes and how to properly address each one.

1. Not Scheduling Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance and servicing of your air conditioner is essential to keeping it running efficiently. Regularly changing the air filter and having a professional inspect the unit can help reduce energy consumption and extend the life of the system. Another mistake that is often made is not scheduling regular maintenance for the air-conditioning system. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the system running efficiently and to reduce the chances of unexpected breakdowns. Schedule a professional tune-up at least once a year to check for any issues, such as worn parts or clogged filters.
2. Using a Bigger Unit than Necessary: Installing an air-conditioner that is too large for the space can cause it to cycle on and off too frequently, wasting energy and money. Make sure to select an air-conditioner that is the right size for your space.
3. Not Sealing Windows and Doors: Unsealed windows and doors can allow hot air to enter the home, making your air conditioner work harder and using more energy. Make sure to seal all windows and doors for optimal efficiency. Have a professional inspect and seal any ducts that may be leaking air.
4. Not Cleaning the Vents and Ducts: Dirty vents and ducts can impede air flow and reduce the efficiency of your air-conditioner. Regularly cleaning your vents and ducts can help keep your system running efficiently. Have a professional inspect your existing ductwork to ensure it is up to code and properly sized for the system you have chosen.
5. Not Insulating Your Home Properly: Poor insulation can allow hot air to enter your home, making it harder for your air-conditioner to cool the space. Make sure to insulate the ducts to prevent any heat or cold from escaping the system.
6. Buying the Wrong System: Hire a professional to install the Phoenix air conditioning system to avoid any potential issues with installation. Make sure to consult with a professional ac contractor near me, Phoenix, to determine which system is best for your needs.
7. Failing to Change Filters Regularly: Make sure to check and change the system’s filters on a regular basis to ensure optimal performance. Have a professional Phoenix, Arizona, air conditioner company inspect and clean the heating and cooling system’s air filters on an annual basis to remove any dust and debris that may be clogging the components.
8. Ignoring Refrigerant Levels: Have a professional Phoenix air conditioning company inspect and adjust the refrigerant level to ensure optimal performance.
9. Cooling an Empty Room:
   The most common mistake homeowners in Maricopa County, AZ, make when air conditioning an empty room is trying to cool it too quickly. When an empty room is cooled quickly, the air conditioning unit may not be able to keep up with the sudden demand and may cause the unit to become overworked. The best way to properly cool an empty room is to gradually lower the temperature.Start by setting the thermostat a few degrees lower than the current temperature. This will allow the unit to slowly cool the room without becoming overwhelmed. Additionally, it is important to keep the room well-ventilated and to close the doors and windows when the air conditioning is running. This will help the unit circulate air more efficiently throughout the room.
10. Putting the AC Unit in Direct Sunlight: This is a very common mistake, as many people don’t realize that direct sunlight can cause the AC unit to overheat and work harder than necessary to cool the home. The best way to address this issue is to place the AC unit in an area that does not receive direct sunlight, such as on the north side of the house or in a shaded area. Incorrectly Sizing the AC Unit. Another common mistake is purchasing an AC unit that is too small or too large for the space it is intended to cool. A unit that is too small will not be able to adequately cool the space, while a unit that is too large will not be energy efficient and can cause humidity problems. The best way to address this is to have a professional HVAC technician come to your home to measure the space and recommend the appropriate size AC unit for it.
11. Neglecting Regular Maintenance is essential for any air conditioning unit near you in Phoenix to ensure it runs efficiently and effectively. This includes things such as cleaning the condenser coils, changing the air filter regularly, and having a professional technician come out to inspect the air conditioner heating and cooling unit and make any necessary repairs or adjustments. Neglecting regular maintenance can cause the unit to run inefficiently or even break down prematurely.
12. Poorly Positioning the Thermostat and Vents: One of the most common air-conditioning mistakes is improperly placing the thermostat and vents. Improperly placed thermostats and vents can cause poor air circulation, which can lead to uneven cooling and higher energy costs. To avoid this mistake, make sure the thermostat is placed away from vents, windows, and doorways. Additionally, position the vents away from furniture, appliances, and other objects that may block the airflow.
13. Setting the Thermostat Too Low: Setting the thermostat too low can cause the furnace to run for longer periods of time, leading to higher energy costs and also wear and tear on the system. Additionally, lower temperatures can lead to discomfort for occupants as the house will not be heated sufficiently.
14. Not Using Fans: Air conditioning is the most efficient way to cool a room without using fans. Air conditioning systems in Phoenix can be used to cool a room quickly, efficiently, and evenly. The cool air created by the air conditioning unit is distributed throughout the room, reducing the temperature and creating a comfortable environment. A thermostat can be used to control the temperature of the room, allowing for precise control.
15. Leaving the Windows Open:
    Leaving the windows open can be a good thing in the spring and summer months when the weather is nice, and there is a nice breeze. It can help to cool down the home and allow fresh air in. However, it can also be a bad idea in certain situations. Leaving windows open during extreme weather conditions, such as during a strong thunderstorm or when temperatures drop below freezing, can cause damage to the home and its contents. In addition, leaving windows open can make a home more vulnerable to intruders.
16. Not Cleaning the Coils
    If you do not clean the coils of your air conditioner regularly, it can lead to a decrease in efficiency and can even cause the unit to break down. Clogged coils will cause the air conditioner to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and wear and tear on the unit. Additionally, when dirt and dust build-up on the coils, it can cause the air conditioner to freeze up and stop working. Regularly cleaning the coils of your air conditioner is essential for keeping it running efficiently and avoiding costly repairs.