When Arkansas summer heat hits hard, your air conditioner becomes your best friend—but it can also be your biggest energy expense. If your utility bills spike every summer, or your system struggles to keep up, it’s time to improve how efficiently your A/C runs.
The good news? A few smart A/C efficiency tips can make a huge difference in performance, comfort, and energy savings. Whether you live in Fort Smith, Van Buren, Alma, or Greenwood, these expert-approved strategies from Riverside Comfort Care will help you stay cool for less.
1. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Just like a car, your A/C needs tune-ups to stay in peak shape. Annual maintenance can improve system efficiency by up to 15%.
Key services include:
- Cleaning condenser and evaporator coils
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Tightening electrical connections
- Testing airflow and thermostat settings
Neglecting these steps can lead to reduced cooling power, frozen coils, and premature wear on components. A dirty coil alone can increase energy consumption by 30%.
✅ Schedule your tune-up with Riverside Comfort Care before the peak of summer hits.
2. Change Air Filters Regularly
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, making your unit work harder and use more energy. It also reduces indoor air quality by allowing dust, dander, and allergens to circulate.
Best practice:
- Change filters every 30–60 days during heavy-use months
- Use high-efficiency filters (MERV 8–13) for better filtration
Make this a monthly habit and save up to 10% on cooling costs. Bonus: cleaner air means better health for your household, especially those with asthma or allergies.
3. Install a Programmable Thermostat
Smart thermostats help manage your home’s temperature more efficiently. Set higher temperatures when you’re away and automatically cool down before you return.
Ideal temperature settings:
- 78°F when you’re home
- 85°F when you’re away
These settings can save 5–15% per year on cooling. Some models also provide energy usage reports and remote control via mobile apps. Learn more from ENERGY STAR.
4. Seal Air Leaks & Insulate
Cool air escapes through poorly sealed windows, doors, and ductwork. This forces your A/C to run longer than needed, leading to higher bills and uneven cooling.
Tips to improve insulation:
- Seal leaks around doors and windows with weather stripping
- Insulate attic and crawl spaces
- Have your ductwork professionally inspected for leaks
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, sealing leaks can cut total home energy use by up to 20%. Even small leaks around outlets or attic hatches can impact efficiency.
5. Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Cool Air
Fans don’t lower temperature, but they help you feel cooler. This means you can set your thermostat higher without sacrificing comfort.
Fan direction:
- Summer: Set blades to spin counterclockwise to push air downward
- Winter: Clockwise to push warm air down gently
A ceiling fan can make a room feel 4°F cooler, allowing your A/C to cycle less frequently. This is especially effective in rooms with high ceilings or sun exposure.
6. Avoid Heat Buildup Indoors
Simple changes in your daily habits can reduce the heat your home absorbs and decrease the strain on your cooling system.
Reduce heat gain by:
- Closing blinds and curtains during the day
- Installing reflective window films or solar screens
- Using heat-producing appliances (oven, dryer) at night
- Cooking outside on the grill
- Switching to LED light bulbs, which emit less heat
By limiting indoor heat sources, you help your air conditioner maintain a consistent temperature without overworking.
7. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient A/C Unit
If your system is over 10–15 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Modern units with higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings use significantly less energy and offer improved comfort, quieter operation, and better humidity control.
We recommend:
- Friedrich Breeze Universal Heat Pump – perfect for Arkansas weather with high SEER ratings, inverter-driven technology, and heating/cooling flexibility year-round
Federal tax credits and utility rebates may also be available for qualifying upgrades. Ask Riverside Comfort Care about custom install options for homes in Fort Smith, Van Buren, Alma, and Greenwood.
Bonus Tips for A/C Efficiency
- ✔ Keep furniture and curtains away from vents to avoid blocking airflow
- ✔ Check that outdoor condenser units are clear of leaves, dirt, and debris
- ✔ Set your thermostat and leave it alone—frequent changes reduce efficiency
- ✔ Close doors and vents in unused rooms
- ✔ Use zoning systems or ductless mini splits to control specific areas
These small changes add up to big savings over the cooling season.
Let Riverside Comfort Care Help You Save
We offer:
- Seasonal tune-ups and inspections
- Smart thermostat installation
- Energy-efficient A/C upgrades and repairs
- Indoor air quality solutions
- Duct sealing and air balancing
Whether you’re cooling a small home in Van Buren or a large household in Fort Smith, we’re here to help you stay efficient, comfortable, and worry-free all summer.
📞 Call us at (479) 123-4567
🌐 riversidecomfortcare.com
Trust Riverside Comfort Care to keep your A/C system running smoothly all summer long. These A/C efficiency tips will help you cut costs without sacrificing comfort.
