It sure is a relief to arrive to a cool and comfortable home when it's hot and sticky outside. Though, if you find yourself hot under the collar when you see high cooling bills, use these 10 ways to increase air conditioner efficiency and give your pocketbook some relief this summer.

Ceiling Fans

The wind-chill effect produced by ceiling fans can help you feel four to six degrees cooler. Set your fans so that airflow blows toward the floor, and turn up your thermostat a few degrees to reduce cooling costs.

Attic Ventilation

Mechanical ventilation helps remove heat and moisture from your attic space. Attic ventilation will substantially lower the temperature in upstairs bedrooms, reduce the cooling load and also help prevent ice dams on your roof during the heating months.

Duct Inspection

The federal Energy Star program states that the average home may increase air conditioner efficiency by up to 20 percent, and sometimes more, by sealing and insulating air ducts. Wrap metal tape around loose and leaky duct connections, and wrap fiberglass insulation around uninsulated ductwork.

Sealing and Insulation

Do you feel drafts near windows and doors? Silicone caulk and weatherstripping work wonders for blocking drafts, increasing air conditioner efficiency and your comfort. Use foam weatherstripping to seal your attic hatch. Check the insulation levels in your attic. If you can see the tops of the joists, add more fiberglass insulation rolls.

Air Filter

A dirty air filter makes your air conditioner work harder to circulate airflow. Filter obstructions can also cause ice accumulation on the evaporator. Check your filter each month during peak usage, and consider using a high-efficiency filter to increase air conditioner efficiency.

Maintenance

Schedule professional maintenance each spring season with your HVAC pro. Running system diagnostics and deep cleaning will help your air conditioner last longer and run more efficiently.

At McCoy’s Heating & Air, our goal is to help our customers in the West Tennessee area learn more about energy and home comfort issues — especially HVAC and plumbing issues — so that they can save money and live in healthier, more comfortable homes.