What could you do to make AC unit run more efficent?

Question

I have an older central AC unit that makes my electic bill extremely high, is there anything I could do to make it more energy efficent?

Answer 1

First let you find out how bad it is working, turn on the A/C let run for a few minutes then go outside and feel the 3/8 line coming out of the condensing unit it is the small line. This line should be around 85-90 max.If it is around 130-140 degrees yes you have problems. The two coils need to be clean as they can be. Turn off the breaker and flush out with a hose the condenser coil from the inside out, you might have to take unit apart. Go inside and look at the coil in the air handler and see how clean it is. Take a brush and clean from top to bottom do not bend fins. If the line is still too hot you can mist the condenser with water to help it run better until you can replace system.

Answer 2

THAT'S THE WAY THEY ARE.  POWER EATERS!  JUST KEEP WINDOWS AND DOORS CLOSED AND PULL SHADES AND CURTAINS WHEREVER YOU CAN.  ALSO, KEEP THE SETTING AT A MID 70'S FOR SURVIVAL AND WAIT TIL OCTOBER =]

Answer 3

make sure you change the filters every month, more if you have pets. Have your unit checked out by a reliable  service person to make sure nothing needs to be replaced. Make sure you have tight seals on your doors and windows. If not, add some. Also, check your insulation and make sure you don't need to add more (over time it settles and becomes less efficient-found that out the hard way and am looking at adding some to my attic.) Close off the vents in rooms that are not in use. Make sure there isn't anything in front of the filter vents affecting the air flow.

Hope this helps.

Answer 4

1.keep the setting at around 78 degrees.

2.make sure that all the windows are properly closed

3.change the filter every 3 weeks.(you will waste less money replacing filters than using the same clogged one for a long time.)