5 Methods To Evaluate AC Efficiency

5 Methods To Evaluate AC Efficiency

Your air conditioning unit may become less efficient over time, costing you money on your energy bills and putting unnecessary strain on the unit itself.

If you suspect your AC unit is not running as efficiently as it should, don’t hesitate to contact Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing for professional AC repair in Lancaster, CA, and the surrounding areas. Our experienced technicians can help diagnose problems and provide necessary repairs.

Here Are Five Simple Methods to Evaluate The Efficiency of Your AC Unit:

Check The Air Filters

The air filters in your AC unit play a vital role in keeping the unit running efficiently. Over time, these filters can become blocked with dust, dirt, and other debris, reducing airflow and putting unnecessary strain on the unit. Generally, you should replace your air filters every three months or more frequently if you have pets or allergies. To check your air filters, remove them from the unit and hold them to the light.

Measure The Airflow

The airflow through your AC unit is another essential factor to consider when evaluating its efficiency. If the airflow is too low, the unit will have to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and a shorter lifespan. To measure the airflow, you can use an anemometer, a small device that measures the speed of the air moving through the unit. Ideally, the airflow should be between 400 and 500 cubic feet per minute (CFM) per ton of cooling capacity.

Check The Refrigerant Levels

The refrigerant in your AC unit absorbs the heat and it is transferred outside from within your house. If the refrigerant levels are too low, the system will need to work harder, leading to inefficient performance. You’ll need to hire our professional HVAC technician to check the refrigerant levels, as this is not a DIY task. Our technician can use specialized tools to measure the refrigerant levels and add more if necessary.

Evaluate The Thermostat

The thermostat in your home is the control center for your AC unit. If the thermostat is not functioning appropriately, it can cause the unit to run inefficiently or even stop working altogether. To evaluate the thermostat, check the batteries (if it uses them). Replace the batteries and check whether the issue is resolved if they are low on power or dead.

Verify The Difference In Air Temperature

The last step in evaluating the efficiency of your AC unit is to measure the difference between the air temperature inside your home and the air temperature outside. The more significant the difference, the more efficient your unit is. To measure this, use a thermometer to check both temperatures at different times throughout the day. If you find only a small difference, your unit may not run efficiently, and it could be time for AC repair.

Our team of experienced AC technicians at Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing can evaluate your unit, diagnose any issues, and provide an affordable, effective solution. Whether you require a minor fix or a total replacement, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to schedule air conditioning repair in Lancaster, CA, and the surrounding areas. 

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