As summer gets hotter, saving on air conditioning costs becomes super important. This blog will show you some easy and cheap ways to lower your cooling bills, along with some advanced tips. Stay cool and save money with these practical ideas!
Different Ways to Reduce Air Conditioning Costs
When you want to stay cool without spending too much, here are some tips to help:
Adjust Your Thermostat
A simple way to save on air conditioning is by changing your thermostat settings. The Department of Energy says to set your thermostat to 78°F (25.5°C) when you’re home and a bit higher when you’re not. Each degree above 72°F (22°C) can save you 3-5% on cooling costs.
Utilize Fans
Using fans is a great way to cool your home without relying only on your AC. Ceiling fans can spread cool air around, letting you raise the thermostat a bit without losing comfort. Remember to turn off fans when you leave the room since they cool people, not spaces.
Block Out the Sun with Window Treatments
Direct sunlight can heat up your home, making your AC work harder. To lower costs, close blinds and curtains during the hottest parts of the day. Energy-efficient window treatments like thermal-backed drapes or reflective blinds can block the sun better.
Plant Shade-Giving Trees and Plants
Planting trees, shrubs, and vines around your home can provide natural shade and reduce AC costs. Deciduous trees, which lose their leaves in winter, are great for shading in summer while letting sunlight warm your home in winter. Place them on the east and west sides to block the strongest sun.
Limit Heat-Generating Appliances
Using ovens and stovetops can raise your home’s temperature, making your AC work harder. Use a slow cooker, microwave, or grill instead. Also, run your dishwasher and dryer during cooler times of the day to lessen their impact on your AC.
Seal Your Home
Air leaks around doors and windows can make your AC work extra hard, leading to higher bills. Check for gaps and seal them with weatherstripping, caulking, or foam sealant. This helps reduce AC costs and keeps your home comfortable year-round.
Regular Maintenance
Keeping your air conditioning system in good shape is crucial. Replace or clean air filters monthly during peak use, as dirty filters can restrict airflow and make your system work harder. Have a professional inspect and service your AC annually to keep it running well. Quality HVAC maintenance ensures your system works efficiently.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can help you save money by adjusting the temperature based on your schedule. This way, you don’t cool an empty house and keep it comfortable when you’re home. Smart thermostats offer extra features like remote control and energy tracking to help you save even more.
Work with an HVAC Contractor in Plantation
For serious help, work with an HVAC contractor in Plantation. They can provide quality HVAC system repair and maintenance, ensuring your system runs smoothly. Here’s how they help:
Find the Best AC Repair Company in Plantation
A good HVAC contractor can help you find the best AC repair company in Plantation. They compare rates and services to get you the best deal, saving on AC repair costs.
Negotiate with Service Providers
If you have trouble with your AC, a contractor can talk to service providers for you. They help you understand your options and find a plan that fits your budget.
Access a Wide Range of Services
Contractors have access to many HVAC repair and maintenance services, giving you more choices to find the right fit for your needs.
Stay Informed
Contractors keep you updated on the latest HVAC technologies and best practices, helping you make informed decisions.
Saving on air conditioning costs is possible with a few changes. Adjust your thermostat, use fans, block sunlight, plant shade trees, limit heat-generating appliances, seal your home, and keep up with regular maintenance. For bigger issues, work with an HVAC contractor to ensure quality air conditioning and save money.