Here's How to Tell if Your A/C is Actually Efficient - Weather Master Heating & Air Conditioning

Here’s How to Tell if Your A/C is Actually Efficient

A woman sitting on a couch with a fan blowing on her

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your A/C system. When you know how reliable and efficient your air conditioning unit is, you can make more informed decisions on how to get the most out of it in order to save some serious dough!

So today, we’re going to tell you step-by-step a simple DIY way to check your air conditioner’s efficiency level! Of course, if your energy bills are super high each month, or if you have to keep the A/C constantly running in order to feel any relief, then you probably are facing efficiency issues – which means it’s a great time to give Weather Master a call! ((919) 853-7910) But if you’re not sure either way, then read on!

Step 1: Make sure the system is on and has been running for at least 15 minutes on a hot day

In order to make sure your A/C efficiency test is accurate, the unit needs to have had time to reach its normal temperature. So make sure it’s been running for at least 15-20 minutes. And, you need to have the right testing conditions, so it should be at least 80 degrees outside!

Step 2: Take the supply air temperature

Do you have a digital/portable thermometer that measures ambient air temperature? (If not, you can easily purchase one for as little as $5-$10.) Place this on top of the supply register so that you can take the temperature of the cool air entering your home. Keep the thermometer there for about 5 minutes to ensure the accuracy of your reading.

Step 3: Take the return air temperature

Now, you’re going to want to take the temperature near the return vent, of the air being pulled out. Since you also want to take the temperature here for 5 minutes, you’re either going to have to hold your thermometer in place for that long, or take the vent cover off and place the thermometer inside.

Step 4: Make the verdict

So, the moment has arrived! It’s time to see whether your A/C is working at peak efficiency or not. In an efficient system, the air coming in (supply vent) should be at least 15 degrees cooler than the air leaving (return vent). If you’re not seeing a temperature difference of at least that much, then it means that your cooling system is not working as well as it could! The efficiency of your A/C unit might be in trouble for reasons ranging from a leak in the air duct, an electrical problem, or simply needing to replace your air filter!

But if you’ve already tried replacing the air filter, and that doesn’t help … It’s time to bring in the professionals from Weather Master!  We’ve been in business here in Raleigh since 1977, and our experts are always available to make sure your A/C unit is running as efficiently as possible. We know how to find even the smallest leaks that might be causing you problems, and we can offer a wide range of repairs and replacements for all makes and models – all performed by certified technicians. Schedule an appointment online or call now: (919) 853-7910

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