Air conditioning is undoubtedly one of the best inventions, allowing us to relax instead of melting into a puddle during the summer. On the other hand, keeping cool during the hotter months adds significantly to the utility bill. Fortunately, HVAC Alliance Expert provides you with these ten tips for lowering air conditioning costs that you can follow.
1. Replace or Clean Your Air Conditioner Filters Monthly
Dirty filters make your air conditioner work harder than it should. Going months (or worse, years) without cleaning your filter frequently causes airflow problems. Cleaning your filters is a piece of cake. We recommend you clean or replace your filters at least once a month or contact HVAC Alliance Expert for AC service and maintenance.
2. Purchase a Programmable Thermostat
Another frequently overlooked method for lowering cooling costs is to buy a programmable thermostat. These devices constantly communicate with your air conditioner, adjusting the temperature as needed. You can also program them to turn down your air conditioner’s performance when you’re not at home.
3. Reduce the Temperature by 7° to 10° F
According to the Department of Energy, lowering your thermostat by 7° to 10° F can help you save up to 10% on your energy bill each year. The goal is to keep the temperature set on your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible.
4. Upgrade to a More Energy-Effective Air Conditioner
Air conditioners have a lifespan of up to 20 years. If you’ve used the same one for over a decade, its efficiency ratings are pitiful by today’s standards. Check out our SEER rating calculator to see how much money you could save by upgrading to a modern unit.
5. Install Blackout Curtains and Window Panels
Do you want to save money on your air conditioning bill without spending a fortune? Blackout curtains are a good choice. Rather than leaving the blinds open all day to let the hot sun in, cover those rooms with thick curtains.
6. Cool Air Can Be Circulated Using Ceiling Fans
Some home designs (particularly older ones) are inefficient regarding air circulation. Depending on the type of air conditioner you have, this may cause some areas of your home to be much warmer than others, tempting you to turn up the thermostat, so ceiling fans can efficiently cool the entire room.
7. Avoid Heat-Generating Activities in Your Home
If you can wait until after dark to cook, bake, and use your drying machine, your home will be much cooler during the day. You won’t need to use the air conditioner as frequently.
8. Plant Some Trees In The Surroundings
Here’s a tip for lowering your air conditioning bill that has nothing to do with how you use your HVAC system. Planting trees outside your home can provide shade from the hot sun for certain rooms. That’s all!
9. Make Sure That The Air Conditioner is Installed in the Proper Location
The location of an air conditioner is an important consideration when installing one. Make sure your AC condenser is shaded and has enough space to vent heat. Also, avoid covering the air conditioner with a dense canopy of leaves and shrubs. Putting your air conditioner in the right place will improve its efficiency.
10. Make a Maintenance Appointment
Regular heating and air maintenance of your HVAC system saves money on monthly energy bills and extends the unit’s life. Contact a local HVAC contractor for a checkup late in the spring or early in the summer. A qualified professional pays close attention to efficiency, ensuring your system operates even on the hottest summer days. This home heating maintenance check should be performed yearly, especially if your HVAC system is more than five years old.
Don’t hesitate to contact us whenever you want to know more about our contractors and the HVAC services offered. Rest assured, we offer the best HVAC service, ensuring long-lasting and effective services!
