Are you burdened by skyrocketing utility bills this summer? To slash AC costs without losing comfort, you should adopt energy-saving routines, implement low-cost changes and make strategic long-term investments. Here are 15 proven strategies to use.
Adopt Good Energy Habits
Lowering cooling system expenses may be easier than you imagine. Here are some absolutely 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 shutting out the sun with insulating curtains and blinds over your south- and west-facing windows, you lower solar heat gain in the afternoon and reduce the necessity for air conditioning.
2. Turn up the temperature: You can save up to three percent on your cooling bills for each degree you elevate the temperature. Try setting your thermostat a bit higher than usual and operating a fan to make up the difference.
3. Flip off the lights when not in use: Lights, especially incandescent bulbs, make a whole lot of heat. Turning them off when you aren't in the space decreases the interior heat gain your air conditioning must combat.
4. Use appliances wisely: Wait to use heat-generating appliances like the oven, dryer and dishwasher until the cooler point of the day. This technique reduces your AC’s workload during the hot afternoon, bringing down your bill and boosting home comfort.
5. Run kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans: Eliminate heat and humidity while cooking and showering to reduce the workload on your cooling system.
Invest in Low-Cost Upgrades
If you’re willing to part with a few dollars, you can put an even greater dent in your cooling costs. Here are some low-cost upgrades to consider:
6. Set up a programmable thermostat: If you still have a traditional thermostat, think about upgrading. A programmable thermostat automatically modifies the temperature according to your activities. You can slash AC bills by up to 10 percent by turning the temperature back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours each day. Thanks to automatic recovery periods, you can enjoy these savings without hassle or discomfort.
7. Schedule regular maintenance: Your AC needs scheduled checkups to make sure it runs easily and efficiently. Maintenance visits every spring also offer a chance to find and take care of small issues before they grow into expensive repairs. This small, predictable cost provides a significant return on investment through increased efficiency and can lengthen the unit's life.
8. Seal leaks: In a large number of homes, leaky windows and doors cause approximately 25 percent of its cooling energy use. Fix those irritating leaks with caulk and weatherstripping.
9. Add reflective window film: Window film reflects the sun’s rays to the outdoors, reducing solar heat gain. This wallet-friendly upgrade is an ideal way to increase your older windows’ efficiency without buying new ones to replace them.
10. Upgrade to LED lights: LEDs create almost no heat and consume a lot less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. These qualities help keep your home from getting warm and reduce lighting costs as well.
Consider Long-Term Home Investments
If you’re ready93 to make more substantial changes, explore the following investments to cut air conditioning costs in the long run:
11. Insulate the attic: Hot air can leak through the ceiling if your attic is not properly insulated. Peek inside the attic, and if you don’t see a substantial, even layer of insulation, you may want to look into adding more. Depending on what form of insulation you choose, you may need to contact a professional for the job.
12. Plant trees for natural shade: Planting leafy trees on the south and west sides of your house blocks sunlight and produces a cool microclimate around your home, naturally reducing 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 advanced glazing features improves your home’s air-tightness and keeps the interior cooler.
14. Upgrade your AC system: Using an aging air conditioner is more expensive than you might think. Upgrading from a decade-old 10 SEER model to a modern 15 SEER unit can save you 33 percent on your AC expenses. The savings capacity of this purchase is even greater if you’re able to invest more up front.
15. Install solar panels: Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity to operate your AC unit and other electric appliances. The ongoing cost savings, coupled with tax incentives available through 2035, make this a valuable investment.
Save More on Your AC in Melbourne With Help From Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
At Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, we go the extra mile to deliver133 excellent HVAC services that help decrease air conditioning costs in the long run. Because of our superior products, Expert knowledge and attention to detail, we feel very comfortable backing our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. To learn more about how we can help reduce your summer AC expenditures, please contact the Experts at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Schedule your appointment today by calling 321-428-7635!