How to save money and energy during Iowa's summer heatwaves

The extreme heat is about to return to Iowa.

If you run an air conditioner to stay cool — and now are bracing for the electricity bill — here are a few tips to keep the cold air flowing and maybe save you a little dough.

What’s the best temperature to set your AC at?

MidAmerican recommends setting your thermostat 5 to 8 degrees higher in the summer to reduce electrical usage. It says 78 degrees is a typical setting in the summer if you’re looking to save money. Dropping your thermostat to 72 degrees will use about 64% more energy, according to MidAmerican.

Similarly, the Department of Energy advises setting the temperature 4 degrees warmer when sleeping and 7 degrees warmer when away from home.

The federal Department of Energy recommends setting the temperature to what you find comfortable and provides humidity control. It reminds people that the smaller the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower the overall cooling bill will be.

Clean and replace filters to keep air conditioners at top efficiency

The U.S. Department of Energy suggests that routinely replacing or cleaning filters is the most important maintenance to ensure the efficiency of an air conditioning unit. It recommends cleaning or replacing the filter every month or two during the cooling season, but filters may need more attention if the unit is constantly being used, subject to dusty conditions or if you have pets with fur in the home.

“Clogged, dirty filters reduce the amount of airflow and significantly reduce a system’s efficiency,” according to the agency’s website. “Replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%.”

For central air conditioner units, filters generally are along the return duct’s length, with common filter locations in walls, ceilings or the unit itself. Room air conditioners have a filter in the grill that faces into the room, according to the energy department.

Check and clean air conditioning evaporator coil annually

The agency also encourages checking the evaporator coil every year and cleaning it as needed. Outdoor condenser coils can become dirty (from everything from dryer vents to falling leaves to the lawn mower). Check to see if dirt is noticeable on the fins. Fins on evaporator and condenser coils can be bent, blocking airflow through the coil. A tool called a “fin comb” can help return the fins closer to their original positions, according to the agency.

More air conditioner tips

Here are some additional tips that may help:

MidAmerican says residents should close shades and drapes during the day, or plant shade trees and shrubs on the south and west sides of your home to provide natural shade.
The energy department suggests passing a stiff wire through the unit’s drain channels to prevent it from clogging.
Consider a new thermostat. MidAmerican says smart thermostats can reduce bills by up to 23%. It offers Iowa customers an online marketplace with discounts of up to $100.

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