Couple or roommates relaxing lying on comfortable poufs in the living room at home, relaxing.

Phoenix’s scorching temperatures, often exceeding 100°F, make having a reliable air conditioning system crucial. A well-functioning, energy-efficient air conditioner keeps you cool during the hottest months and saves energy, reducing your utility bills.

Below, Donley A/C & Plumbing provides simple tips for enhancing your air conditioner’s performance. These tips will ensure you stay comfortable while improving your air conditioning unit’s efficiency and lifespan.

Understanding the Phoenix Climate

The relentless heat in Phoenix can strain your AC system, increasing energy usage and the risk of a breakdown. With cooling demand peaking in summer, homeowners must take proactive steps to maintain AC units.

Regular maintenance is vital for AC systems to work well in Phoenix’s harsh climate. Tasks like cleaning or changing air filters, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting ducts for leaks are essential. Homeowners can ensure that their air conditioners run smoothly and efficiently by scheduling routine and professional system care.

Maximizing AC Efficiency

Improve your air conditioner’s performance with these tips:

  • Regular maintenance: Schedule routine AC tune-ups to clean or replace air filters, check refrigerant levels, and inspect ductwork for leaks. This helps prevent breakdowns and keeps your system running smoothly.
  • Optimal thermostat settings: Set your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature in summer and the lowest in winter to reduce energy usage and strain on your AC system.
  • Sealing and insulation: Seal gaps and cracks around doors, windows, and ductwork to prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering your home. Doing so will help your AC system work more efficiently.
  • Utilizing fans: Use ceiling fans to circulate air and make your home feel cooler without lowering the thermostat temperature.
  • Shade and ventilation: Close curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day to block out sunlight and reduce heat gain. Additionally, proper ventilation will allow hot air to escape and cool air to circulate.
  • Upgrading equipment: To cut energy use and costs, consider installing a new, energy-saving AC unit or smart thermostat.

Taking Advantage of Energy-Saving Programs

Arizona provides different programs and rebates to assist residents in saving energy and money on their AC systems. For example, Arizona Public Service offers rebates for installing energy-efficient AC units and heat pumps.

Similarly, Salt River Project offers Cool Cash rebates for buying high-efficiency AC units. Federal tax credits are also available, reaching up to $600 for eligible ENERGY STAR® air conditioners and up to $2,000 for heat pumps with suitable efficiency ratings. Other local incentives might apply to your specific upgrade.

Maximize Your Comfort Today

Routine maintenance is the key to a reliable, energy-efficient air conditioner. In Arizona, AC units usually last 10 to 12 years, but regular maintenance can extend their lifespan.

For almost 50 years, Donley A/C & Plumbing has been helping customers stay comfortable at home. As a family-owned business, we’re dedicated to keeping you cool and saving you money. When you choose us to service your cooling system, you can trust our expert advice, free second opinions, transparent pricing, and top-notch parts — all backed by a satisfaction guarantee.

Contact us today to schedule air conditioning maintenance in Phoenix, AZ.