Before installing your window air conditioner, it's important to check if the particular window you have your eye on is suited for the purpose. Ideally, the window has to be double-hung. That means it should have a fixed upper pane, then a lower pane you can slide up and down.
However, if the window moves from side to side or tilts outwards if you open it, it won't be a good option for installing an AC. While you're also scouting for the right window, check that the window has an electrical outlet nearby because it's not recommended to use an extension cord when powering your AC.
Last but not least, make sure the AC won't be affected by direct sunlight and that there's enough clearance both inside and outside for air to circulate or flow freely.
Ideally, this is something you should do before making a purchase. You'll need to measure the height and width of your window opening as well as determine the square footage of the room you're attempting to cool. All you need for this is a tape measure to help you measure the window from side to side and then from top to bottom. You can also do this for the room if you don't already know its square footage.
Remember to attach the window air conditioner side panels and fasten them properly. Installing window air conditioner side panels properly ensures there are no gaps, and this prevents warm air from entering your home, which increases the efficiency of your AC.
When summer rolls around, the sweltering days and nights can get pretty uncomfortable. But, now that you know the best way to install your window air conditioner, be sure to apply these tips, so you can keep cool in summer.
One bonus tip: Installing a window air conditioner might seem simple and straightforward. Still, it's always best not to attempt installation without a second pair of hands to help. Otherwise, you can end up damaging the unit or, worse, injuring yourself or others and their property if the unit accidentally drops out of the window. When in doubt, call in the professionals!
]]>Typically, the efficiency of AC units is measured via SEER ratings. An AC can only qualify for an Energy Star label if it has a minimum SEER rating of 1.45 for split-system units, although it's always best to go even higher, especially if you want to qualify for federal tax credits that you can benefit from when purchasing an energy-efficient HVAC system.
These are the top benefits you can expect when you purchase an AC unit with a high SEER rating:
When you switch to a high-efficiency air conditioner and combine this with other actions to keep your home cool, you can lower the amount of energy used to keep your home cool by up to 50%. That's because a high-efficiency AC won't require much energy to operate, and this translates to a reduced energy bill. Lower energy costs are always something every homeowner can appreciate.
As mentioned, the technology of HVAC systems has improved considerably. These days, you can purchase air conditioner models that come with convenient features that give you more flexibility when operating your AC and keeping your home as comfortable as possible. These features further help reduce your home cooling costs, since there will be fewer temperature swings and therefore less energy consumed. The higher the efficiency of your AC, the more advanced features it has, giving you more bang for your buck.
If your HVAC system doesn't have to work as much to keep your home cool, then it stands to reason that it will experience less wear and tear over time compared to other units with lower efficiency. High-efficiency air conditioners tend to cycle on and off fewer times, and their superior performance means they don't have to be replaced frequently. This also helps you save more in the long run.
As you can see, high-efficiency AC units deliver superior performance across the board. If you're not already taken in by the idea of reducing your energy costs, then you'll absolutely love the advanced features that come with a new high-efficiency air conditioner.
]]>Additionally, purchasing a new HVAC unit or servicing the existing one also helps with efficiency. For instance, if your air conditioner has a broken air conditioner screen, it will not function properly and this might increase electricity consumption. Let's look at some of the ways to cool your house down.
Most of the heat that ends up in your house comes in via sunlight. Therefore, if you control the amount of heat that gets into your home, you can also control the heat levels. One efficient way of controlling the sun's rays is by using blackout curtains or shades. If you still want a bit of sunlight in your house, you can leave the windows that don't face the sun directly uncovered. That way, indirect sunlight can filter in.
You should also check to see if the color of your curtains isn't affecting your indoor temperatures. Some colors absorb heat and cause an increase in your indoor temperature. When it's hot, you can change the color of your outward-facing curtains to lighter colors that don't absorb too much heat.
When it's hot, it's better to minimize the sources of heat in your home. This means you will want to use your oven less and try cooking your food using appliances that emit less heat, like pressure cookers or microwaves. Excessive use of the dishwasher can also cause your indoor temperatures to rise. Also, activities like blow-drying in the bathroom can contribute to high temperatures in the summer months.
The same practices that help maintain warm temperatures in your home during winter can also be used to keep your home cool during summer. For instance, you can save on air conditioning bills by keeping the cool air in and the heat out. This can be effectively achieved by insulating your attic and wall.
When using your air conditioner, ensure that the coolness that is being generated is confined to where you need it the most. Therefore, it makes more sense to focus on cooling rooms that you spend most of your time in or bedrooms at night. You can then shut doors to unused rooms that don't need to be cooled.
These are some of the ways to keep your home when it's hot. You must also get your air conditioner serviced. A faulty air conditioner can cause an increase in your utility bills. For instance, if the air conditioner screen is cracked, it will not function properly. The air conditioner screen covers your AC unit and prevents debris from getting in.
]]>According to the US Department of Energy, heating and cooling bills account for 50-60% of the total utility costs for the average American household. This makes the HVAC system the largest energy expense in most homes. As the summer heats up, you may need to examine your energy consumption and find ways to cut back on your cooling costs.
One excellent way is through improving the air conditioning efficiency within your home. Improperly installed and malfunctioning units can cause a significant spike in your monthly electricity bill. Here are five practical tips to help you improve the energy efficiency in your HVAC unit.
A home energy audit is essential in determining the performance of your current HVAC unit. At times, outdated systems, worn-out ductwork, or malfunctioning thermostats may cost you money without you knowing. Local HVAC services can send a certified home energy rater to inspect your home and provide recommendations for ways to improve your air conditioning efficiency.
Well, maintained, energy-intensive, or large air conditioning systems are excellent for retrofitting. This involves adding or replacing parts to your current HVAC unit to make it more energy-efficient. The DoE estimates that you can have up to 35% of your annual energy cost through retrofitting. HVAC services can help you replace the compressor, add fan controls, or fit in new air filters. You may also replace an air conditioner side panel kit to keep your conditioned air within the home.
A study by the Uban Green Council found out that the typical air conditioner has air leaks equivalent to a six-inch gaping hole. Your home may be losing out conditioned air through cracks on your air conditioner screen, your attic, gaps on windows and doors, etc. You can use a candle to detect drafts that signify air leaks around your home. Sealing all air leaks may reduce the output demand on your HVAC unit, improving its energy efficiency.
Keeping up with routine maintenance schedules for your air conditioning system can help keep all components in top shape. HVAC services can conduct minor tune-ups, part replacements, and replacements to ensure that your current unit lasts longer. Scheduling an HVAC inspection at least once a year can help you avoid performance issues and breakdowns. Besides, the technician can inform you when it’s time to find a new HVAC unit from the air conditioning supply store.
Wrong settings on your thermostat can force your air conditioning unit to overwork, resulting in energy inefficiency. Reducing the temperature settings even by a few degrees can make a huge difference in your monthly electricity bill. A smart thermostat can automatically regulate the heating and cooling within your home by monitoring your household habits. The automated thermostat adjusts the temperature when occupants are asleep or away, increasing the system's overall efficiency.
Homeowners are ever on the lookout for ways to save on their household expenses. The small but simple steps can set you up in the right direction to improving the energy efficiency of your HVAC unit.
]]>According to DOE, approximately three-quarters of homes have air conditioning in the U.S., making it an essential household appliance. Like any other ac system, regular maintenance of your AC window unit is necessary for optimal performance. Proper maintenance should be carried before and after every season's use to maximize efficiency.
However, it would be best to call a well-trained professional when your AC window unit needs more than essential regular maintenance because they are better positioned to identify and fix problems. Also, if your AC window unit is faulty and older than ten years, it is time you visit the nearest air conditioning supply store.
Below are some regular maintenance steps that will ensure your AC Window Unit is running smoothly.
It is essential that you clean and replace faulty filters of your AC window unit regularly. This enhances efficiency, quality air, and it's also energy-saving — clean reusable air filters with warm water and scentless detergent. Also, the durability of your unit's filters depends on the conditions of your home and the surrounding environment.
Dirty filters lead to dirty coils, and this leads to poor air quality in your home. Vacuum clean the evaporator coils once in a while to ensure your unit's optimal performance. For stubborn dirt, remove your unit's casing, rinse well and then let it air dry.
The fins on your AC unit are prone to bends that affect its performance, and therefore they should be inspected regularly. Use a fin comb from the nearest air conditioning supply store to do the job.
Once in a while, your AC window unit will need a technician to fix it. Below are things that you should look out for.
Regular maintenance enhances durability and keeps you from regular visits to the air conditioning supply store. Also, it keeps your unit clean for optimal performance.
]]>One excellent way recommended by the DOE is through air sealing. Leaks within your house can cause heated air to seep out during winter. The conditioned air slipping out during the hot, humid summer months can overwork your HVAC unit as well. A common culprit that most homeowners with window ACs overlook is the air conditioner screen.
Gaps or cracks within your air conditioner side panel kit can have a significant impact on your home’s energy use. Here are seven factors to help you choose the right air conditioner screen for your window AC.
The material used to make the window air conditioner side panels may affect its durability and energy efficiency. You need to find an insulating material that won’t leak out the heated or conditioned air. Pick out a moisture-resistant material that won’t support mold growth or attract insects, too. Accordion foam is prone to tears, while wooden panels are susceptible to cracks and rot.
Most homeowners wish to have a flawless theme design around their home. The artistic design, shape, and color of your air conditioner screen may affect the overall view of your window unit. Interlocking slide panels from Easy-AC-SCREEN may help provide a seamless, neat appearance, blending perfectly with most window ACs.
You may need to find an airtight seal between our air conditioner screen and the window HVAC unit. The size of your air conditioner and the window may dictate the size of the screen panel to pick. Sliding panel mechanisms allow you to get a proper fit by gently pushing one panel over the over, regardless of the window AC size.
You may have to take out your window AC unit every summer. As such, you need to choose an air conditioner side panel kit that is easy and ready to set up. Nailing cardboard or taping accordion baffles in place can be a hectic job. Opting for easy-to-install slide panels may make it easier to have your window AC out in no time.
The cleaning and maintenance provided to the air conditioner screen may affect its durability and efficiency. You may have to choose an appropriate cleaning product and tools to keep the side panels in top condition. The heavy-duty propylene material on the EASY-AC-SCREEN is low-maintenance, only requiring paper towels and standard cleaners to remove stains.
You may need to think about the cost value of your purchase. Buying low-quality side panels can leave you frustrated and with a damaged AC unit. While you may need to look at your budget, you shouldn’t sacrifice quality to save a few cents.
Finding the right air conditioner screen is critical to sealing the gaps next to your window AC. EASY-AC-SCREEN is an excellent side panel kit that utilizes a sliding mechanism for a perfect fit. To learn more about our product or for HVAC parts supply, reach out to us today.
]]>Most Americans would agree that a home may not be warm and cozy during summertime without a properly functioning HVAC unit. Poorly installed window ACs can reduce energy efficiency within a home by up to 30%. If you’ve noted a spike in your monthly electricity bill, you may need to check your air leaks. Chances are that you are bleeding money through your window air conditioner side panels.
Air leaks are costly. According to the Energy Star program under the US Department of Energy, most people can save up to 20% on their heating and cooling costs by sealing the leaks. Small cracks in the accordion-style air conditioner screen can have a huge impact on your energy use.
Cold wintry nights cause heated air to leak outside the building while cold drafts enter. In the hot summer months, the conditioned air slips out while hot air seeps into the rooms. Using window air conditioner side panels such as EASY-AC-SCREEN can help seal the air leaks.
Conditioned air sipping out of your home does more financial damage than just rising electricity bills. Here are several ways that air leaks can hurt your pockets;
As stated before, air leaks cause HVAC units to draw more power to compensate for the loss. The net effect is spikes recorded on your monthly electricity bills. With heating and cooling costs representing 50-60% of utility bills in the typical American home, soaring power bills can put a strain on your monthly budgets.
Your air conditioners may have to work harder to try to compensate for the air loss. Overworking your unit results in frequent breakdowns and more trips to the air conditioning supply store. Besides, you may have to hire HVAC services to carry out repairs on your damaged unit. Replacement of critical parts such as motors and filters can set you back hundreds of dollars to get the AC in good working condition again.
Cracks and spaces on your window air conditioner side panels can result in moisture build-up on your window trim and frame. The moisture can slowly corrode your frame, weakening your windows. Wooden windows can rot, crack or warp due to excess moisture. Replacing your damaged windows is expensive, with the national average per unit costing $650.
According to the Department of Energy, taking a whole-home approach to reducing your energy consumption can cut your electricity costs by up to 30%. Measures such as installing efficient HVAC equipment, keeping the unit well maintained, installing programmable thermostats, sealing air leaks, adding insulation, sealing air ducts, and much can help you achieve your goals.
EASY-AC-SCREEN are window air conditioner side panels that provide for a perfect fit, sealing out the air leaks. You can also enjoy better insulation from the heavy-duty, weather-resistant polypropylene material.
Air leaks within the home can significantly reduce the energy efficiency within your home. Window air conditioner side panels from an HVAC parts supply store can help seal the gaps, saving you money in the long term. To make an order for your EASY-AC-SCREEN, reach out to us today and start saving today.
]]>One important factor in sealing the sides of your AC unit is checking for any space gaps. The smallest spaces can leak air, making your air conditioner less effective, also letting in bugs and dust. Use an air conditioner side panel kit that has adhesive-backed, open-cell foam weatherstripping to fill the gaps and prevent air leaks.
Clean the surface and area of the air conditioner before using the foam weatherstripping. Remove any dust and other remnants from the area. Measure the space of the gap and then cut a strip of the foam weatherstripping. After peeling the back of the strip, place it sticky-side up along the underside of the window panel. Press the strip along the window for a firm seal. Use this process for a gap that is 1/8 inch thick or more.
If the gap is less than 1/8 thick, use rope caulk. It's like putty, which can be removed with your air conditioner for winter. Measure and tear off a piece of the caulk. Then place it in the gap and smooth out the caulk. Remove any excess caulk with a dry cloth from the window or air conditioner. You can also use fiberglass insulation as well for gaps larger than one inch.
With summer approaching and if you're looking to buy a new air conditioner, make sure you use the air conditioner side panel kit that comes with it. Use the kit supplies properly, so the air conditioner is airtight. Installing an air conditioner is a two-person job. Make sure you have someone help you place the air conditioner properly and securely.
]]>This is especially important for older homes, which may be leaking the cold air inside to the outside through poorly insulated attics, and small openings in the windows and doors if they don't shut well. Your local contractor or utility provider can send a certified home energy rater who will check for leaks and recommend the best way for you to save energy in your home.
Alternatively, perform an audit yourself by standing outside and placing your hand around the doors and windows. If you can feel any cold air escaping, add caulk and insulation where necessary.
These can be set to automatically regulate cooling and heating when you're not home, saving you money in the process. You can even adjust their settings remotely using an app or voice commands on your mobile phone, making them a great option over traditional thermostats.
This will have the double effect of not heating your thermostat up which will make it turn on more often as well as keeping the sun from heating up the house itself. You can additionally use a fan which will help cool down the house efficiently. A smart fan can even follow a schedule you set to start and stop at certain times.
If the thermostat is set up right next to a hot window that is hit by the sun and hot wind more, for instance, it will start and run more often than necessary because it thinks the room is hotter than it actually is.
Homeowners in the United States can save between 20 and 50 percent on their air conditioning expenses each year by simply purchasing new HVAC units. They can also take additional steps like caulking windows and keeping them closed while air conditioning is being used to conserve the cold air within the house. Saving energy on HVAC in your home comes down to practical measures and if you follow the tips outlined above, you will be fine.
]]>Saving energy is increasingly important not only for our own financial health but also for the health of the whole planet. Air conditioner and HVAC services are two main ways to ensure that our homes are comfortable. Therefore, by optimizing their use you can save energy. Here are some examples of how you can optimize the use of HVAC services in your home.
If your HVAC system was installed a good many years ago, you may think of getting a new unit. Homeowners can save anywhere from 20% to 50% on their air conditioning expenses each year by purchasing new HVAC units. If purchasing a new unit is not feasible right now, making simple fixes like caulking windows and keeping them closed while the HVAC service is running can help you reduce your energy use.
Servicing your unit by replacing filters, checking the evaporator coils, and cleaning the air ducts can lower your cooling system's energy consumption by up to 15%. Furthermore, making sure that the ducts are properly sealed can save up to 30% of the energy consumed.
AC units are specifically designed to cool down the air in a room. Most of them are quite bulky and are usually installed in a window. The main problem with those units is the difficulty in ensuring a tight fit to keep the cool air inside and the hot air outside. Fortunately, now there is a way to ensure that your AC unit maintains that perfect seal with the EASY A-C SCREEN. It has an ingenious sliding door design, installs in 15 seconds, lasts a really long time, and looks great.
As the days get warmer but not excessively hot, you may try to open some windows without switching on the AC or the HVAC services. A nice breeze may be enough to cool things down and make your home comfortable.
Another way is to cook outside. Summer is synonymous with outside barbecues and grills, besides being lots of fun, they also limit the use of the oven and keep your home cooler.
Saving energy does not mean that you need to do without your AC or HVAC, but using them smartly can help you save a bundle on utility bills.
]]>The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that the typical American home uses 48% of its energy use for heating and cooling. During winter, your heating system represents up to 42% of your monthly usage. You may need to find ways to cut down on your energy consumption costs.
Improper HVAC installations reduce energy efficiency by up to 30%. One critical aspect that homeowners often overlook while at the air conditioning supply store is the HVAC side panel kit. The conventional accordion-style panels are thin with minimal insulation benefits.
Getting an EASY A-C SCREEN from your air conditioning supply store can help you improve the energy efficiency of your window HVAC units. Here are seven benefits of replacing your accordion strip with EASY A-C SCREEN window air conditioner side panels.
A study by the Urban Green Council revealed that the average air conditioner leaks air equivalent to a six square inch hole. Accordion baffles leave gaping spaces between the HVAC system and window frame, resulting in the conditioned air escaping outdoors. The EASY A-C SCREEN sliding door design allows the side panel to get a perfect fit, keeping your cool air inside. Not only will this keep your home more comfortable, but it will also reduce your environmental impact.
Conditioned air leaking out can force you to crank up your AC, leading to more power consumption. An ineffective air conditioner screen can cause your electricity bills to skyrocket. EASY A-C SCREEN can reduce your energy loss and save you money in the long term.
The EASY A-C SCREEN window side panel is made from heavy-duty, weather-resistant polypropylene. The flat canvas can doesn't absorb water like the traditional foam panels, which can support mold growth. The panels can serve you for years, only requiring an occasional protective coat.
Nailing cardboard or trying to duct tape a pillow to your windowsills can be a challenge. When you order the EASY A-C screen from the air conditioner supply store, you receive two interlocking sliding panels that fit perfectly next to your HVAC unit. You only need to place the screen next to your air conditioner and extend it to fill the open space.
The interlocking slide panels make up a beautiful design that maintains a cool finish. The off-white color canvas blends perfectly with most window HVAC units, providing a uniform look. You can achieve a seamless, neat appearance for your air conditional side panels with a little more creativity.
The EASY A-C SCREEN flat canvas is easy to maintain. You can easily clean stains on your panels with paper towels and a surface cleaner such as Windex. Additionally, you do not have to lubricate the sliding mechanism for it to work.
When you purchase an EASY A-C screen from our air conditioning supply store, you can enjoy extensive warranties. The product remains covered under Maine’s Implied Warranty Law for four years.
Window air conditioner units are an excellent way to keep your home cool during the hot summer months. However, gaps on your side panels can result in energy loss and skyrocketing bills. The EASY A-C SCREEN can patch up these holes, improving insulation and your room’s overall aesthetics.
]]>For most households, there’s nothing better in the summer than walking into a cool, humid-free room during a sweltering afternoon. Your HVAC unit allows you to stay comfortable within your home, even on the sultriest of days. It's no wonder that Americans spend 6% of all electricity generated in the U.S. to power their air conditioners.
Experts say that HVAC systems represent 50% to 60% of the typical energy costs in an American home. Maintaining your AC unit can help you save on your energy bills. Here are seven ways that can help you make your home more energy-efficient.
Your HVAC unit contributes the largest portion of your energy bills. The seven tips above can help you make your AC more energy-efficient, saving you money in the long run. Contact us today to learn more about improving your HVAC parts supply and your energy efficiency.
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