Summer is synonymous with spiking AC expenses all over the country. While you should expect your energy costs to increase slightly, there are a few tips you can utilize to keep your bill from skyrocketing. Unfortunately, the hotter months mean your AC unit is running harder to keep you comfortable. Here from Comfort Systems is a helpful checklist to use to keep your operating expenses low as it heats up outside.

1. Ceiling Fans

A ceiling fan is a great way to have excellent airflow without turning down your thermostat. They are relatively inexpensive to install and can make it feel much more comfortable throughout the house. They are accommodating on high humidity days when you may be tempted to crank the air extra hard.

2. Keep Natural Heat Out 

If you’re used to keeping your blinds or curtains open, you’ll notice how quickly the sun can heat your home. Keep them closed during the day, and consider investing in bright-colored curtains that can reflect the sunlight.

3. Run Your AC Efficiently

Rather than putting down the AC at random, it’s a better alternative to keep the thermostat at a constant temperature. Start by gauging a comfortable temperature that wouldn’t be too hard on your energy expenses, such as 76 or 78 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s better to keep it at a constant temperature rather than turning it way down when you feel the need.

Also, it’s good to invest in a smart thermostat that controls temperature settings based on your schedule. For example, you may set it to a higher temperature when you’re at work or going to sleep.

4. Keep Your Filter Changed

One of the essential rules of proper AC maintenance is to ensure the filter gets changed. Depending on the type of filter you have, it can be switched out from 30 days to three months. However, increased summer heat usually means you’ll be changing it out more often. Clean air filters provide the following benefits:

improved airflow in your HVAC system

removal of containments that can make your family sick

helps your unit operate more efficiently, which ultimately saves money on your electric bill

5. Be Logical With Daily Activities That Produce Heat

Many homeowners are unaware that they are creating excessive heat in their homes with daily routines. Some of these items include the oven, dishwasher, oven, or stove. You could consider waiting until the dishwasher is completely full to run it or just wash dishes by hand. Or you could wait until evening to do the laundry. Avoid using all these appliances at the same time in the middle of the day.

6. Switch To LED Lights 

Using LED lighting is a somewhat new trend throughout the industry, and it’s popping up across more homes everywhere. Using these lights over incandescent bulbs has specific benefits. First, they last much longer, with up to 30 times more lifespan. Secondly, they operate much more efficiently, which can save you big bucks on your energy costs. They also emit very little heat, so you don’t have to worry about burning your hand or heating up the room.

7. Seal Leaks

If you don’t seal off cracks in the doors or windows throughout the home, the home will not be energy efficient. Some additional areas to check include around electrical outlets, baseboards, or weather stripping around entryways. Usually, caulking the leak takes care of the problem so your home can maintain the desired temperature and comfort.

8. Plant Trees Nearby The Home

Not only can trees provide an aesthetic appeal for the exterior of your property, but they can help keep your house much cooler. Some trees that grow quickly for shade are red oak and birch trees.

9. Maintain Your AC Unit

Preventative maintenance can help ensure your AC unit is working at an optimal level. At Comfort Systems, annual service with our technicians has the following advantages:

  • Lower your energy costs. An annual cleaning/inspection of major mechanical parts ensures your bill can be as inexpensive as possible. Without proper upkeep, your system can lose up to five percent of peak operating efficiency.
  • Your AC unit can last much longer with regular tune-ups and maintenance. Average units can range anywhere between $4,000-$6,000, so it’s important to protect your investment.

Call Comfort Systems For An Estimate

Feel free to find out more about our planned maintenance  services today! We guarantee a fast response, even if you have a breakdown in the middle of the night. We are ready to work to provide superior service. Get in touch with us at your convenience.

Posted in Air Conditioning, Energy Savings