Summer is awesome, but the sky-high electric bills from constantly running your air conditioning are not. It’s probably no surprise that A/C units are responsible for most utility costs during warmer months. But there are a few effective ways to increase an air conditioner’s efficiency to bring down your electric bill.
While turning up the thermostat or sealing your doors and windows are apparent go-tos, there are some other ways to make your A/C work better.
Condenser Maintenance
Did you know that cleaning the outside unit (the condenser) can help? You can clean the outside but leave the more detailed cleaning to professionals so that you don’t damage components.
Be sure debris and objects aren’t blocking it so air can circulate. Also, providing shade over your condenser can bring down your bills. Harsh sunlight can make the system work harder in the same way direct sunlight can cause your thermostat to register higher temps.
Replace Components
If you call a professional for help cleaning the condenser, ask them to inspect all your system's parts inside the condenser and evaporator as well.
While replacing the air filter is another maintenance task you can easily do yourself, an HVAC pro can check the more intricate parts like the compressor. And if you have a noisy unit that vibrates or rattles, you can even ask them about the benefits of installing an expansion joint to make your unit run better and quieter.
Install Zoning Systems
Some rooms become hotter than others at different times of day, and you might try to control your A/C efficiency by opening and closing registers in certain rooms of your home. But don't do that. Shutting off airflow to some areas can adversely affect your air conditioner and could even cause severe damage.
To achieve this effect without damaging your system, you can install zoning systems. These systems use dampers in your ductwork to control airflow and send it to different rooms in your home.
While it’s still wise to do the little things like covering and sealing windows, thinking outside the box will give you even more effective ways to increase an air conditioner’s efficiency and save money!
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of February 17, 2026. The first day of fasting will likely fall on February 18. The month will end around March 19, 2026, depending on local moon sightings. These dates may be changed, depending on the country.
A red robin watches a Ramadan family prayer with warmth and wonder.
Ride into the rare Year of the Fire Horse with legends, dragon dances, lucky foods, and a fiery red robin salute to Lunar New Year. The Year of the Fire Horse is one of the most dramatic and culturally charged cycles in the Chinese zodiac. It appears only once every 60 years, and when it does, it ignites stories of passion, rebellion, creativity, and change.
From ancient legends to modern festivals filled with dragon dances and lanterns, the Fire Horse gallops through history
as a symbol of both risk and possibility.
Quick Fire Horse Snapshot:
Rare 60-year cycle • Fiery passion • Bold change • Artistic energy • A time to move, create, and transform.
Fire Horse-inspired lantern art at a Lunar New Year celebration.
As mid-February settles in, Presidents' Day arrives as a welcome pause in the winter season, a moment when
communities across the United States step outdoors for parades, visit historic sites, and reflect on the
leaders who shaped the nation. The holiday blends civic pride with the comfort of a long weekend, creating
a unique mix of celebration, education, and family time.
In 2026, the holiday on February 16th carries added significance as the nation enters its 250th anniversary year,
inspiring expanded programming, special exhibitions, and renewed interest in the country’s founding era.
From record spending to instant downloadable gifts for couples, pets, and families. For late shoppers, these ideas make a great solution for finding meaningful gifts.
Valentine’s Day 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet. Recent retail surveys show
that total Valentine’s spending is expected to reach record levels, with average budgets per
person climbing close to the $200 mark. Consumers aren’t just buying for romantic
partners anymore; they’re also celebrating kids, pets, friends, and themselves.
At the same time, how people express love is changing. Instead of defaulting to last‑minute
flowers and generic chocolates, many are looking for gifts that feel personal, meaningful,
and easy to deliver, especially when they’ve left things a little late. That’s where
downloadable, print‑at‑home, and digital gifts step into the spotlight.
A public restroom mirror takes more abuse than most building fixtures. It deals with constant traffic, quick cleanups, occasional impacts, and the daily reality of fingerprints and splashes. The best option stays clear, resists damage, and installs in a way that supports safety and accessibility. Continue reading to explore the best mirror types for high-traffic public restrooms.
