Are you stressed by increasing utility expenses this summer? To cut AC costs without losing comfort, you should adopt energy-saving habits, implement low-cost changes and make strategic long-term investments. Here are 15 effective strategies to try.
Adopt Good Energy Habits
Trimming AC costs may be easier than you suspect. Here are some absolutely free ways to ease your monthly power bills:
1. Keep curtains and blinds closed: About 76 percent of the sunlight that streams onto standard double-pane windows gets into the building as heat. By shutting out the sun with insulating curtains and blinds over your south- and west-facing windows, you lessen solar heat gain in the afternoon and reduce the demand for air conditioning.
2. Turn up the temperature: You can save up to three percent on your AC bills for each degree you raise the temperature. Try establishing a temperature on your thermostat a bit higher than usual and using a fan to make up the difference.
3. Switch off the lights when not in use: Lights, especially incandescent bulbs, create a lot of heat. Turning them off when you leave the space decreases the interior heat gain your air conditioner must combat.
4. Use appliances wisely: Wait to use heat-generating appliances like the oven, dryer and dishwasher until the coolest point of the day. This approach reduces your AC’s burden during the hot afternoon, minimizing your bill and improving home comfort.
5. Run kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans: Eliminate heat and humidity while cooking and showering to diminish the workload on your AC.
Invest in Low-Cost Upgrades
If you’re willing to invest a few dollars, you can put an even greater dent in your AC expenses. Here are some affordable upgrades to consider:
6. Install a programmable thermostat: If you still have a traditional thermostat, look into upgrading. A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature based on your routine. You can slash AC expenditures by up to 10 percent by dialing the temperature back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours per day. Thanks to automatic recovery periods, you can enjoy these savings without hassle or discomfort.
7. Schedule regular maintenance: Your AC should have routine checkups to make sure it runs properly and efficiently. Maintenance visits every spring also provide a chance to find and take care of small issues before they grow into expensive repairs. This small, predictable expense provides a significant return on investment through improved efficiency and prolonged equipment life span.
8. Seal leaks: In a large number of homes, leaky windows and doors cause about 25 percent of its cooling energy use. Seal those annoying leaks with caulk and weatherstripping.
9. Install reflective window film: Window film reflects the sun’s rays to the outdoors, limiting solar heat gain. This budget-friendly upgrade is a very good way to increase your older windows’ efficiency without replacing them.
10. Upgrade to LED lights: LEDs generate almost no heat and utilize a lot less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. These properties help keep your home from getting warm and reduce lighting costs as well.
Consider Long-Term Home Investments
If you’re looking93 to make more extensive modifications, explore the following investments to cut air conditioning costs in the long run:
11. Insulate the attic: Hot air can seep through the ceiling if your attic has not been adequately insulated. Peer inside the attic, and if you don’t see a deep, even layer of insulation, you may want to look into adding more. Depending on what form of insulation you select, you could 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 obstructs sunlight and creates a cool microclimate around your home, naturally cutting down on your cooling requirements.
13. Replace your windows: Old, single-pane windows let in a whole lot of heat, requiring your AC to work harder. Buying new double- or triple-pane windows with state-of-the-art glazing features improves your home’s air-tightness and keeps the interior cooler.
14. Upgrade your AC system: Running an aging air conditioner is more expensive than you might think. Upgrading from a decade-old 10 SEER model to a contemporary 15 SEER unit can save you 33 percent on your AC bills. 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 run your cooling system and other electric equipment. The ongoing cost savings, coupled with tax incentives available through 2035, make this a beneficial investment.
Save More on Your AC in Saint Charles With Help From Golden Seal Service Experts
At Golden Seal Service Experts, we go above and beyond the expected to make sure our customers get133 exceptional HVAC services that help cut air conditioning costs in the long run. Because of our top-quality products, Expert knowledge and attention to detail, we feel secure backing our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. To learn more about how we can help lower your summer AC costs, please contact the Experts at Golden Seal Service Experts. Schedule your appointment today by calling 630-246-2698!