What is one effective way to reduce the load on residential air conditioning?

Adding more insulation in walls and ceilings is an effective way to reduce the load on residential air conditioning because it helps to maintain a consistent indoor temperature by minimizing heat transfer between the inside and outside of a home. When insulation is improved, it reduces the amount of heat that enters during hot weather, thus allowing the air conditioning system to operate more efficiently. The air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain the desired indoor temperature, leading to lower energy consumption and extended lifespan of the unit.

Enhanced insulation helps to keep cool air from escaping during the warmer months and prevents heat from entering, significantly contributing to overall energy efficiency. This improvement can result in lower utility bills and a more comfortable living environment, particularly in extreme weather conditions.

In contrast, other options like installing a larger unit or using lower-quality windows would not provide the same benefits. A larger air conditioning unit may cycle on and off too frequently without effectively regulating temperature, while lower-quality windows can lead to increases in heat transfer, thereby worsening the load on the system. Raising the thermostat setting could offer some temporary relief by reducing operational demands, but it compromises comfort rather than addressing the underlying issue of heat gain in the home.