Are you weighed down by escalating utility costs this summer? To cut AC costs without losing comfort, you should adopt energy-saving behaviors, implement low-cost changes and make strategic long-term investments. Here are 15 effective tips to use.
Adopt Good Energy Habits
Trimming cooling system costs may be easier than you suspect. Here are some totally free ways to ease your monthly energy bills:
1. Keep curtains and blinds closed: Roughly 76 percent of the sunlight that hits standard double-pane windows enters as heat. By blocking out the sun with insulating curtains and blinds over your south- and west-facing windows, you cut down on solar heat gain in the afternoon and reduce the need for air conditioning.
2. Turn up the temperature: You can save up to three percent on your AC bills for each degree you elevate the temperature. Try setting your thermostat a bit higher than usual and running a fan to make up the difference.
3. Turn off the lights when not in use: Lights, especially incandescent bulbs, produce quite a lot of heat. Turning them off when you walk out of the space lowers the interior heat gain your AC must combat.
4. Use appliances prudently: Wait to use heat-generating appliances like the oven, dryer and dishwasher until the cooler time of the day. This approach reduces your AC’s burden during the hot afternoon, lowering your bill and boosting home comfort.
5. Run kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans: Eliminate heat and humidity while cooking and showering to cut down the workload on your air conditioning.
Invest in Low-Cost Upgrades
If you’re willing to invest a few dollars, you can put an even bigger dent in your cooling expenses. Here are some cost-effective improvements to consider:
6. Install a programmable thermostat: If you still have a traditional thermostat, look into upgrading. A programmable thermostat automatically changes the temperature depending on your routine. You can cut AC bills by up to 10 percent by turning the temperature back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours a day. Thanks to automatic recovery periods, you can experience these savings without inconvenience or discomfort.
7. Schedule regular maintenance: Your air conditioning requires routine checkups to make sure it runs easily and efficiently. Maintenance visits every spring also give technicians a chance to detect and resolve minor issues before they grow into expensive repairs. This small, predictable expense provides a substantial return on investment through greater efficiency and helps your AC last as long as possible.
8. Seal leaks: In many homes, leaky windows and doors cause around 25 percent of its cooling energy use. Close off those troublesome leaks with caulk and weatherstripping.
9. Use reflective window film: Window film reflects the sun’s rays to the exterior, decreasing solar heat gain. This affordable upgrade is a great way to enhance your older windows’ efficiency without buying new ones to replace them.
10. Upgrade to LED lights: LEDs create almost no heat and use considerably less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. These properties help keep your home cooler and cut down on lighting costs as well.
Consider Long-Term Home Investments
If you’re prepared93 to make more significant modifications, explore the following investments to cut AC costs in the long run:
11. Insulate the attic: Hot air can get through the ceiling if your attic isn’t adequately insulated. Look inside the attic, and if you don’t see a thick, even layer of insulation, you may want to look into adding more. Depending on what kind of insulation you choose, you might need to hire a professional for the job.
12. Plant trees for natural shade: Planting leafy trees on the south and west sides of your house reduces sunlight and creates a cool microclimate around your home, naturally lowering your cooling demands.
13. Replace your windows: Old, single-pane windows let in a large amount of heat, requiring your air conditioner to work harder. Replacing single-pane windows with double- or triple-pane windows with innovative glazing features increases your home’s air-tightness and keeps the interior cooler.
14. Upgrade your AC system: Running an aging air conditioner costs more than you might think. Upgrading from a decade-old 10 SEER model to a modern-day 15 SEER unit can save you 33 percent on your AC expenses. The savings potential of this purchase is even greater if you’re prepared to invest more up front.
15. Install solar panels: Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity to operate your HVAC and other electric equipment. The ongoing cost savings, together with tax incentives available through 2035, make this a valuable investment.
Save More on Your AC in East Syracuse With Help From Falso Service Experts
At Falso Service Experts, we go the extra mile to provide133 excellent HVAC services that help reduce air conditioning costs in the long run. Because of our superior products, Expert knowledge and attention to detail, we feel confident backing our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. To learn more about how we can help reduce your summer AC costs, please get in touch with the Experts at Falso Service Experts. Schedule your appointment today by calling 315-313-6531!