Calgary´s Extreme Temperatures Require Efficient Air Conditioning

To look at the average summer temperature in Calgary, you wouldn´t think air conditioning was necessary. Most Websites peg the average temperature for July and August at about 23°C. Those who live in Calgary know differently.

The year 2008 saw extreme heat warnings as the mercury shot up to nearly 34°C in August, and nearly 31°C in June. Clearly, residents of Calgary have reason to start up their air conditioners at least a few times during the summer. Making sure they run efficiently is the key to keeping energy use at manageable levels during periods of extreme heat.

Energy Efficiency in Your Air Conditioning System

In Canada, central air conditioners must meet minimum efficiency standards. Energy Star air conditioners are the most efficient, using 8% less energy than standard new air conditioners.

For air conditioners, efficiency ratings are measured by SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio). The higher the SEER number, the greater the efficiency. You can see the SEER rating on the EnerGuide label on the manufacturer´s brochures. Energy Star air conditioners – both single package and split systems - have a SEER rating of at least 14.

If your air conditioning system is more than ten years old, you should check the SEER rating and consider upgrading to an Energy Star model. According to BC Hydro, Energy Star air conditioning systems are comparably priced to standard models and save you significant money in the long term.

Not only will you reduce costs, you will also reduce your greenhouse gas emissions. An estimate from the US states that if all American homes with air conditioning upgraded to the most energy efficient models, they could eliminate up to 40 million tons of CO2 emissions each year.

Other Tips For Improving the Efficiency of Your Air Conditioning

The level of refrigerant in your air conditioner is key to its efficient operation. You should have your air conditioner serviced regularly to ensure refrigerant levels are correct. Correct levels mean that there is enough refrigerant, but not too much. The technician should note refrigerant levels on your service invoice so you can keep a record between visits.

As to how frequent your service calls should be, that is up to you. Heavily used air conditioning systems should be checked every year, while those used less often can be checked every two years. Regular maintenance should be done every year, with cleaning the key task to be completed. A clean unit runs more efficiently than one that has dust or condensation on it.

Set your programmable thermostat to 25°C or higher. For each degree your air conditioner is set below 24°C, you will use 3% to 5% more energy.

You can also use manual methods to keep your house cooler. Keep blinds closed, turn off lights during the day, and use fans to cool the air without changing your thermostat. Note that ceiling fans are a very cost-effective cooling method. Just make sure they blow air downwards during hot weather.

Calgary is not subject to the extreme heat and humidity of some other Canadian cities, but it does receive its share of very hot days. Installing and maintaining a high-efficiency air conditioning system will lower your energy bills, while keeping your home comfortable on days when the temperature sets new records.

Talk to Clearview about a new air conditioner. We are your home heating and cooling experts, ready to install and service all makes and models of air conditioners.