8 Steps to Improve AC Efficiency
You can improve AC efficiency by replacing dirty filters, sealing ductwork, adjusting thermostat settings, and scheduling routine maintenance.
If your air conditioner struggles to keep your home cool and you’re wondering how to make the unit more efficient, this guide is for you! An AC system that is unable to cool properly can waste energy and increase monthly utility bills. However, following small but important tips for air conditioning efficiency can improve the system’s performance.
In this guide, you will learn eight steps for improving air conditioning efficiency to keep your home comfortable through the Las Cruces summer. If you are nearby, contact Air Control Services at 575-567-2608 for professional air conditioner inspection and maintenance.
How to Make Your Air Conditioner More Efficient
You can make your AC more efficient by replacing or cleaning the filter regularly, sealing ductwork, setting the temperature correctly, and scheduling a professional inspection. Additionally, keep the condenser clear, use ceiling fans, and upgrade to a high-efficiency unit when needed to lower energy bills and improve comfort.
1. Change or Clean the Air Filters
Change or clean the air filters every 1 – 3 months to improve AC efficiency and prevent unnecessary strain on your air conditioning system.
The air filter collects dust, dirt, and allergens from the air inside your home. When they become blocked, the air conditioner cannot circulate air properly, resulting in uneven cooling and higher utility bills.
To avoid this, check your filters at least once a month during the peak summer season in Las Cruces. You should replace standard air filters every 1 – 3 months. If you have washable filters, simply clean them with water or vacuum. This simple step can improve indoor air quality and airflow throughout your home.
2. Check Thermostat Settings
Check thermostat settings to verify they are set to around 76–78°F when you are home and awake.
If the temperature is set too low, the air conditioning system will run longer than necessary. Incorrect temperature settings can also cause uneven cooling and unnecessary wear on components, reducing overall air conditioner efficiency. Make sure you set it correctly to balance comfort and cost.
Additionally, if you still rely on a manual thermostat, we suggest upgrading to a programmable or smart system. These thermostats allow you to set schedules that automatically adjust temperatures based on your routine. A smart thermostat can even learn your preferences and make real-time adjustments for better energy savings.
3. Seal Ductwork to Fix Air Leaks and Insulate Properly
Seal ductwork and insulate properly to prevent cool air from escaping.
Leaky ducts can lose up to 30% of cooled air, forcing your AC to run longer and work harder than it should. This wasted energy directly increases cooling costs and reduces the comfort level in different rooms of your home.
Common signs of duct problems include uneven temperatures, higher dust levels, and weak airflow from vents. Inspect visible ductwork in your attic, basement, or crawl spaces for gaps, disconnected joints, or old duct tape that has worn out. Sealing these leaks with professional-grade materials helps maintain consistent air flow and improves air conditioner efficiency.
Additionally, check the insulation. Without proper attic insulation, cool air escapes, and heat from outside enters your home. Adding or upgrading attic insulation reduces this heat transfer and helps keep rooms consistently cool during the Las Cruces summer.
4. Keep the Outdoor Condenser Unit Clean and Clear
Keep the outdoor unit clean and clear because a dirty or blocked condenser makes it harder for your AC system to release heat.
When dirt, weeds, or other debris restrict airflow around the condenser, the AC works harder than necessary and may wear out faster.
Inspect the outdoor AC unit regularly, especially during the summer. Remove leaves, grass clippings, and trash from around the condenser, and trim plants or bushes so there is at least two to three feet of clearance. If you notice dirt buildup on the coils, gently rinse them with a garden hose to restore proper airflow.
5. Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Air
Use ceiling fans to circulate air and support your AC system in keeping rooms cooler without lowering the thermostat.
Fans don’t actually reduce the temperature, but they create a wind-chill effect that makes the room feel cooler. This allows you to raise thermostat settings by a few degrees while still feeling comfortable.
For best results in the Las Cruces summer, set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise. This pushes cool air downward and improves air flow throughout the room.
6. Upgrade to a High-Efficiency Air Conditioner or HVAC System
Upgrade to a high-efficiency air conditioner when your current AC system is more than 10 – 15 years old or requires consistent repairs.
As air conditioners age, their performance drops while energy use rises. Replacing an outdated system can improve cooling, reduce monthly bills, and provide more consistent comfort.
High-efficiency air conditioners are rated by SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). The higher the SEER rating, the less energy the unit uses to deliver the same level of cooling. In Las Cruces, where summers are long and hot, choosing an air conditioner with a SEER rating of 16 or higher can make a noticeable difference in comfort and cost savings.
We also recommend replacing an AC that requires frequent repairs, runs constantly, or leaves rooms with uneven cooling.
7. Keep Vents Open to Improve Ventilation
Improve ventilation by opening blocked or closed vents that may be restricting airflow.
Many homeowners think closing vents in unused rooms saves energy. However, it actually causes pressure imbalances that can lead to duct leaks, unequal temperatures, and added strain on the compressor.
Walk through your home and check that all supply vents are fully open and free from obstructions. Also, move rugs, furniture, or curtains that may be blocking air flow.
8. Schedule Annual Air Conditioning Maintenance and Inspection
Schedule annual AC maintenance and inspection to detect loose electrical connections, low refrigerant levels, or worn belts before they become major issues that reduce air conditioner efficiency.
During a professional inspection, technicians check the compressor, condenser unit, ducts, and thermostat settings to make sure all components are working correctly. They also clean key parts of the AC unit, such as coils and filters, to maintain proper airflow and prevent dirt buildup that restricts performance.
Take Action to Improve Air Conditioner Efficiency Today
If all tips for air conditioner efficiency fail to solve your comfort issues, contact Air Control Services in Las Cruces, NM, for professional help. Our team can inspect your air conditioning unit, identify hidden problems, and perform the maintenance or repairs needed to restore performance.
Call 575-567-2608 to book an AC inspection and maintenance service.
FAQS
How to improve AC performance?
You can improve AC performance by cleaning the air filter, checking thermostat settings, sealing ductwork, and scheduling professional maintenance. These steps help your air conditioning system run more efficiently and extend its lifespan.
How can a bad compressor affect my air conditioner?
A failing compressor can reduce your system’s ability to move refrigerant through the unit, which directly impacts cooling. If the compressor struggles, your air conditioner may run longer, use more energy, and still not meet your home’s comfort needs.
How to make an air conditioning system work better during high humidity?
Excess humidity makes the air feel warmer and forces the AC system to run harder. To make your air conditioner work better, ensure the unit is properly sized, check for clogged pipes that may block drainage, and consider a dehumidifier to support balanced indoor comfort.
How are heat pumps different from air conditioners?
Heat pumps and air conditioners both cool your home by moving warm air outside, but the main difference is that a heat pump can also provide heating. In summer, a heat pump works like a standard air conditioner. In winter, it reverses the process, drawing heat from the outdoor air and bringing it inside.