Would adding a 5000 btu window unit to the main area help my central air unit work less in extreme heat conditions, without significantly increasing my power bill?
I have a quick update on my air conditioning situation. With the crazy heat we’re having, my central air has been running non-stop just to keep the house at a decent temperature. So, I decided to try something out and installed a 5000 btu window unit in the main area of the house. It’s a big open space with the kitchen, dining, and living rooms all together. And let me tell you, it has made a huge difference!
Now, the central air only kicks on every 45 minutes, runs for 15, then shuts off. Before adding the window unit, it was running constantly. Just to clarify, there’s nothing wrong with my central air unit, it’s just not used to this extreme heat.
So, here’s my question – would running the window unit along with the central air help lighten the load on the central unit and save some energy? I’m thinking that if the central air doesn’t have to work as hard, it might give it a break and save on the power bill.
I’m already doing everything else I can think of – closing off rooms, using a ceiling fan, and keeping the shades and curtains closed. But I’m curious if anyone has tried this
Oh yeah, I would totally be up for that! Just remember to close all blinds and curtains and make sure the doors are locked. Hanging blackout curtains or thick blankets on the sunny windows can really help, and avoid using the oven.
Do you have a small window unit running alongside the central air?
I was thinking maybe
I had a feeling about that! I did some research online as well and most sources were saying the same thing, just not as clearly. I ended up installing a 5000 btu unit and turned it on. The central air started running but shut off after only 15 minutes! It’s currently 90 degrees with a heat index of 98, so it’s really hot for us. Normally, the central unit would run for at least 30 minutes at 90 degrees, even longer if it’s hotter.
Yeah I feel you, the heat is really getting to us here too. And it’s going to stay in the 90s until Monday! Have you checked your outdoor central air unit? We cleaned ours by spraying it with the hose since it was covered in debris.
I always make sure to keep it clean. The unit is working fine, it’s not damaged. It’s just not built for this level of heat because it’s not the norm for us. Everyone’s AC is running constantly. I just wanted to lessen the load on it. Surprisingly, it hasn’t turned back on yet and it’s been 35 minutes! Amazing, right?
Oh yeah, we make sure to spray it off regularly too. I also read somewhere that using a patio umbrella to shade it from the sun can be beneficial if it’s not already in the shade. I’m glad the window unit is helping you stay cool!
I find the patio umbrella idea intriguing! I’m going to do some research on that. Thanks for bringing it up!
Hey , so I looked into the patio umbrella suggestion. Turns out it’s a trend on social media, but it might not be the best idea. According to 2 different news sources and HVAC technicians who have tested the units, it could actually be harmful. So, I’ll pass on that one.
I’m in Texas where we’ve already hit triple digits, which will continue through most of the summer. We also have high humidity. We set our AC unit to 74 degrees and use two large ceiling fans to circulate air during the day. I keep my house open to enjoy the views, closing up only at night. We only use the bedroom ceiling fan at night. Our unit runs to maintain the set temperature, and our electric bill averages around $170.00 per month for a 3-bedroom home. That’s pretty normal in our area for the extreme heat. Maybe your problem is related to insulation? Have you checked your windows and doors for proper sealing?
Wait, are you saying you use a small window unit in addition to running central air?
No small unit needed, just stick to central air and ceiling fans.
Alright, so my question is whether it’s beneficial to run a small window unit along with the central air to reduce strain on the central unit.
I believe central AC units are designed to do the job on their own, so a window AC unit shouldn’t be necessary.
First off, make sure you have a new or clean filter in your furnace, and clean off the outside condenser if the radiator part is blocked.
Definitely, we’ve tried it all. The AC works fine under normal heat conditions, but anything over 100 degrees is not typical for us. Many people here face the same issue when it gets that hot. That’s why I asked about using a window unit to help out the central air.
You should get your unit checked out. It should be able to handle the load. The coils might be dirty or frozen, causing it not to function properly. If it was installed for your house size and is not cooling effectively, there is an issue. It’s meant to dehumidify and it seems like it’s struggling with that.
Hey , oh my goodness! As I mentioned before, the unit is in good condition. It gets checked every year. It’s just not equipped for the unusual heat waves that hit us every few years. By the way, have you ever tried running a window AC alongside the central air? That’s what I was wondering about.