Ways to reduce your Air Conditioning cost this Summer!
I remember when my family first moved to Colorado in July of 2012, it was a fiercely hot summer, setting record highs. I could not imagine that it would snow in just a few months.
As the summer months are going to approach us, so is your energy bill. We understand better than most that cooling your home in the summer can, at times, feel like a double-edged sword. While it certainly makes for a more comfortable experience, your AC expenses could be draining your bank account.
Even though you can’t control the heat waves that mother nature throws our way, there are things you can control to lower your energy bill during these hot summer months. We suggest these useful and effective tips and tricks to keep your home cool and reduce your air conditioning cost.
1. Install a Programmable Thermostat
Programmable thermostats cut energy usage by adjusting temperatures while you’re away or asleep. You can program them yourself or purchase one that slowly adapts to your temperature preferences. Some can even be set up with an app away from home.
According to the Department of Energy, you can save up to 10% annually by adjusting your temperature by 7 to 10 degrees for 8 hours a day. Programmable thermostats can automate the process.
2. Avoid Cooking Indoors
Cooking in an oven or stovetop generates a lot of heat, which strains your air conditioner. The summer months are great for outdoor cooking and grilling outside. Alternatively, you can use appliances that through off less heat, such as crockpots or electric griddles.
3. Seal Your Windows
Poorly sealed windows leak air, which makes your air conditioning system work harder. Caulking leaks or cracks and weather stripping your windows will prevent cool air from leaking out of your windows.
4. Use Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans circulate cool air, taking some of the burden off your air conditioning system. Use your existing ceiling fans or install them throughout the house to increase energy efficiency.
5. Replace Your HAVC Air Filters
Air filters keep your HVAC system running smoothly by preventing dust from blocking your vents and promoting air circulation. If the filters are dirty, your system will have to work harder to circulate air.
You will want to replace your filters at least every few months, and possibly more if you have pets or kids. Luckily, air filters are cheap and easy to switch by yourself.
6. Maintain Your AC Unit Regularly
While all of these tips are sure to help you lower your AC costs this summer, one thing is for sure: all of your efforts could be for nothing if you don’t properly and regularly maintain your home’s AC unit.
We recommend scheduling regular maintenance for your unit to ensure that all components are working properly and as efficiently as possible. When a component of your unit fails or does not work properly, this can cause a multitude of issues for your unit and your wallet. Especially in the hot summer months, it’s important to maintain your AC unit regularly.
We hope you utilize our tips and tricks for keeping a cooler home in the summer and effectively lowering your AC costs. These summer months can feel overwhelming, especially for your cooling system and it just may show on your next energy bill. We hope you can avoid a spike in energy costs by keeping these suggestions in mind.