The summer heat will be here before you know it. If you want to keep cool and save money simultaneously, there are ways to conserve energy around the house and when you use your AC system. Here are some tips for staying cool this summer while being comfortable with your utility bill each month:
Around the House
You can start saving energy around your home without changing your AC’s settings. When certain factors are in place, your AC tends to work overtime. Here are some tips for optimizing your AC’s energy consumption:
Unplugging Devices
Did you know that plugged-in electronics continue using energy even when not in use? With this in mind, unplugging any electronics you aren’t using at that time can help you conserve energy and save money on your utility bills.
Keeping Doors and Windows Closed While AC is On
It’s tempting to keep a window or two open for fresh air while your AC is running; however, doing so can cause your air conditioner to work overtime when it doesn’t have to do so. Therefore, if your AC is on, you should keep your windows and doors closed to keep the cool air in and hot air out.
Windows Open While AC is Off
On the flip side of the previous comment, you can open your windows for fresh air if your air conditioner is off. Also, when the air gets cooler later in the day, and during the evening, you can open the windows to cool your home naturally with the breeze.
Use Electricity During Off-Peak Hours
If you have an electricity plan that charges differently based on the time of day that you use your electrical devices, try to use electricity more often during the off-peak hours. Doing so will help to conserve electricity and save you money, too.
Home AC Systems
Energy conservation and money-saving tips can also apply to using your AC unit specifically. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Operate Thermostat Efficiently
Try to keep efficiency in mind when setting your thermostat. If you have a smart thermostat, you can set the temperature to different levels at various times throughout the day. You can also access your thermostat even when you’re not home and adjust the temperature so your AC unit doesn’t run unnecessarily.
New Filters
When the air filters on your HVAC system get dirty or old, they don’t work as well. As a result, the system takes longer to cool your home, and the constant use of the AC can increase your utility bill. Therefore, make sure you change your air filters regularly when necessary to do so and have these filter changes done during regular maintenance visits.
Maintenance on Home Cooling Systems
It’s a good idea to schedule regular maintenance visits with an HVAC professional. By doing so, you can rest assured knowing your HVAC system will work correctly when you need to use it, and problems can be fixed if there is an issue.
New, More Effective Cooling System
If it’s time to get a new cooling system, you may want to do so as soon as possible. New AC systems usually have excellent energy conservation attributes, and the air conditioner won’t have to work as hard as an older system might have to do so.
Ensure your air conditioner is ready for the hot summer heat by scheduling a maintenance appointment for your HVAC system.
Contact Us today and learn more about a new AC or AC maintenance service from Air Design today!
