When the summer heat is upon you, your energy bill skyrockets. Many people dread summer for this reason alone. You don’t want to be uncomfortable, but you don’t want to have a heart attack when you open your energy bill, either. You can keep your costs low. First, go green and think about solar. Second, take these five steps to help your air conditioner out so it doesn’t have to work so hard to keep your home cooler on the inside when the mercury rises on the outside.
1. Install Ceiling Fans
If you don’t have them already, install ceiling fans in all of your rooms. It is reported that when you have the fans running alongside your AC, you will feel six to seven degrees cooler. If you purchase energy-efficient fans, you needn’t worry about your energy bill skyrocketing, as these do not use a ton of electricity. In fact, with your fans going, you can set your thermostat higher, which will make up any difference in terms of energy consumption.
2. So, Set That Thermostat Higher
So, no excuses. Once the fans are better circulating the air, set your thermostat higher. The higher you set it, the more you’ll save on your energy bill. You don’t need it running while you’re out during the day or at night. If you have a programmable thermostat, set the AC much higher while you’re at work and while you’re sleeping. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save 10 percent on your utility bills by doing this.
3. Get Annual Maintenance
Your air conditioning unit is a complex and sensitive piece of machinery and you should have a professional inspect it each spring to ensure it is ready for its “summer job.” You can replace your air filters yourself, but the tough stuff, such as cleaning the inside of the unit, inspecting your air ducts, and making certain you have the approved coolant is better left to an expert. An AC unit that runs at its best runs more efficiently, which saves you money.
4. Generate Heat at Night
Every time you turn on your stove or run your dryer, you generate heat. If you can avoid any activity that introduces more heat into the home during the day, you’ll save money on your energy bills. This is why many electric companies recommend doing things such as your laundry after seven p.m. This keeps the air cool inside your home and helps your AC to run less. You should also avoid taking hot showers and running your heat-producing entertainment devices, such as your big screen TV.
5. Pull the Shades
The U.S. Department of Energy reports that purchasing and installing reflective blinds will reduce your indoor heat gain by as much as 45 percent. That’s significant. Pull your blinds, close your curtains, and draw the shades. You want to create a barrier that prevents the sunlight and outdoor heat from seeping into your home. The darker the inside the cooler, so close up everything in the morning.
These are ways that you can save money on your summer energy bills. Don’t spend more than necessary. Keep your house cooler with these tips.