The summer season brings a wonderful time—setting picnics out in the sun, gorging on ice cream, visiting farmers’ markets, and having a blast. With all this, however, comes the scorching heat, which can be difficult to deal with. That’s where air conditioners (ACs) come in. When installing, maintaining, or using ACs, people make several mistakes that waste energy and money. This article explores five such mistakes, along with tips to avoid them.

Blocking the air vents
People mistakenly place furniture, curtains, or other items in front of the air vents, blocking them. This affects the efficiency of the AC, causing it to work harder to maintain the desired temperature in the room. For proper air circulation and optimal efficiency, ensure the air vents are free of any obstructions.

Not cleaning the air filter
ACs work by sucking in air. In this process, they also attract dust, dander, and allergens, which are caught by the air filters. Failing to clean these regularly may lead to clogging, forcing dust into the room, slowing down the cooling process, and damaging the air conditioning system.

Installing AC units in a sunny spot
Window AC units must be positioned with care. Installing AC units in a sunny spot may cause them to work harder to cool the air, reducing their efficiency. Always install new air conditioning units in a shady spot. Moreover, before installing outdoor units, ensure the space is clear of trees, shrubs, flowers, and other obstacles.

Ignoring preventative maintenance
Regular maintenance could help air conditioning systems function at their optimal levels and enhance durability. In addition to regular filter cleanings, one must schedule annual or bi-annual professional maintenance appointments to inspect and clean the internal components, check refrigerant levels, and lubricate moving parts.

Keeping the AC running all day
Many people keep the AC running all day, even when no one is at home. This leads to significant energy consumption, raising electricity bills. To avoid this, it is advisable to invest in a programmable thermostat, which allows users to set temperature preferences and schedule the air conditioning system to run at certain times of the day. Alternatively, one can utilize natural ventilation during cooler parts of the day to optimize energy efficiency.