Introduction
When summer approaches we all want to beat the heat and the way that some of us go about it is to use window air conditioning unit. These unit do their job and they do it well but there are a few things that we can do to help them cool our homes more efficiently. Using a window unit can be a cost-effective way to stay cool, but to maximize efficiency and savings, it’s crucial to use them correctly. Here are the top five tips to help you get the most out of your window unit and help create a more Energy Efficient Home.
1. Check the rating.
Window units are typically rated by the number of BTU’s they can produce. However, most of us, do not have a clue what a BTU is and so the manufacturer’s of window units will typically tell you how many square feet the unit will cool. To find your square footage measure how big your room is and multiply the length times the width. You will want to make sure that you get a unit as close to your square footage as possible.
Most of the time it is better to go over just a little if you will be cooling an area with a kitchen or if you have high ceilings. You want to make sure the rating is close because if it is too small it will run constantly and not cool very efficiently therefore making your power bill higher. If it is too large the room could feel a bit moist since part of the job of the window unit is to dry the air as well.
2. Use fans and Curtains.
That is right. Use fans to help mix the air in the room that you are using the window unit. This will help you be more comfortable instead of having one area that is hot and one that is cold. Another thing that the fans do as well is give the perception that it is cooler than it is. Moving air in the home can give us the perception that it is up to 3 degrees cooler than is. This means that we can set the thermostat to a higher temperature so that it does not run as much.
During the hottest parts of the day, close your curtains or blinds to block out sunlight. This helps keep the room cooler and reduces the load on your window unit. Reflective or blackout curtains are especially effective in maintaining a lower indoor temperature.
3. Use the thermostat.
This is very important but it also depends on the room that you are cooling. If you have one big window unit in the living room that you are using to cool the entire house then you want to find a temperature that is comfortable and set the thermostat and leave it. Now, if you are using a window unit in your bedroom you can set that thermostat higher when you are not in there so that it will not run all day to cool a room that you are not using.
Set your window unit to a comfortable but efficient temperature, typically around 78°F (25°C). Using a programmable thermostat can help maintain this setting consistently, saving energy when the room is not in use. Avoid setting the temperature too low, as this increases energy consumption.
4. Keep the filter clean.
Keeping the filter clean on your window unit can help save you energy when you are using it. When the filter is dirty the window unit has to work harder to move the air. This in turn means that it will take longer to cool the space that you are trying to cool. I know that when I am hot I do not like to wait any longer than I have to to be cool. This will also help your window unit last longer and operate more efficient. Because the filter will be clean and the motor will not have to work as hard, the window unit will last longer.
5. Seal the air gaps.
Ensure there are no gaps around your window unit to prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from entering. Use foam strips or caulking to seal any gaps. This simple step can reduce energy loss and increase the unit’s efficiency.
This sometimes seems like a no brainer but I cannot tell you how many times I have had someone complain about their power bill only to find out that they are using a window unit. When I go inside to inspect I see air gaps everywhere. The fan on the window unit not only blows cold air but it sucks air in as well. This air has to come from somewhere and it is going to take the path of least resistance and if that means that it is going to come from around the door where you can see outside then so be it. Go to the hardware store and buy some insulation and some weatherstripping to keep out the drafts. Even tape can help on old drafty windows. Another problem area to address many times is the attic access.
These may be stairs or just an access hole. Many times the seal around these holes is not very good and lots of hot air can come from your attic. If you are not sure where to start with weathersripping and insulation, look at your windows and doors and if you can see daylight (I am not talking about through your glass window panes for you wise guys out there) you can bet that cold air is escaping and hot air is coming in. You can also crawl up in your attic and see if there is insulation. If there is no insulation, start here. You will see a dramatic improvement.
6. *Bonus Tip* Choose the Right Location.
Place your window unit in a central location where air can flow freely. Avoid areas with direct sunlight, as this forces the unit to work harder. Installing it in a shaded or less sunny window can improve efficiency by up to 10%.
By following these tips, you can enhance the performance of your window unit, save on energy costs, and enjoy a cooler living space throughout the summer. Remember, efficiency is key to comfort and savings. You will be suprised how much better your window unit works after you follow these tips!
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