5 Ways to Get the Most Out of A New Air Conditioner

Buying a new air conditioner is a major investment in your home's comfort. Proper use and regular care help your system cool your home efficiently, reduce energy use, and last longer. Ewing & Ewing Air Conditioning shares five simple tips to help you get the most from your new AC.

1. Choose the Right Type of AC

Choosing the right AC depends on your home's size, layout, ductwork, and cooling needs. Check the SEER rating when buying a new AC. A higher rating generally means better energy efficiency. Common AC types include:

• Central Air Conditioning: Central AC is a good choice for cooling an entire home. It uses ducts and vents to distribute cool air throughout different rooms.
• Ductless Mini-Split Systems: Mini-split systems are useful for homes without ductwork. They can cool separate rooms or zones, giving you better control over energy use.

2. Seal Air Leaks

Air leaks around windows, doors, pipes, and other openings can make your air conditioner work harder. Sealing these gaps helps keep cool air inside and warm air outside.

Use caulk around stationary areas, such as window frames, and weatherstripping around doors and windows. If you have central AC, check your ductwork for leaks. Proper duct sealing and insulation helps prevent cooled air from escaping. Sealing air leaks also helps lower your energy bills and improve overall comfort.

3. Keep Air Filters Clean

Clean air filters are important for better airflow and efficient AC operation. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and make your air conditioner work harder. Check your AC filter at least once a month during the cooling season. Replace it when it becomes dirty or clogged.

Homes with pets, dust, or heavy AC use may need more frequent filter changes. Regular filter changes also help improve indoor air quality by trapping dust and other airborne particles. Clean filters also help extend the life of your air conditioning system.

4. Set Consistent Temperatures

Frequent thermostat changes can cause your AC to work harder. Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature and avoid making large changes throughout the day. The Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat around 78°F when you are home and raising it by 7–10°F when you are away.

A programmable or smart thermostat makes temperature control easier. Using this device, temperature settings can be adjusted according to your schedule, helping reduce unnecessary cooling. Maintaining steady indoor temperatures also helps limit unnecessary energy use.

5. Schedule Timely Maintenance for Your AC

Regular air conditioning maintenance helps your system run smoothly and prevent small issues from becoming costly repairs. Schedule professional AC maintenance at least once a year. During an AC tune-up, an HVAC technician inspects refrigerant levels, electrical connections, airflow, coils, and other key parts.

You should also keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves, dirt, plants, and debris. Regular maintenance improves AC efficiency, supports better cooling, and helps extend the life of your system. Routine maintenance also helps prevent unexpected breakdowns during peak summer heat.