Let’s face it – beating the heat isn’t cheap. We spend hundreds of dollars each summer trying to keep our homes cool and comfortable. Fortunately, there are a number of practices that you can implement to help cut costs while remaining refreshed. Keep reading to learn more about how you can save money on your heating and cooling systems by following these simple, but effective tips.
Replace Your Old Air Conditioner
Installing energy-efficient windows and air conditioning units can help cut cooling costs in half.
These options are a little more expensive up front, but the amount of money you save over time makes the purchase worthwhile – this is even more noticeable in hotter and humid climates.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
A thermostat works by stopping the air conditioner unit’s compressor when the temperature reaches a specific level, which, in turn, prevents the unit from operating longer and inefficiently. Oftentimes, a programmable thermostat will pay for itself and more in just one hot summer.
This is because you can program the device to shut off when you’re not home and adjust the temperature on cooler days and nights. In some new systems, you can even control the thermostat settings from your smartphone.
Clean AC Filters Regularly
The biggest contributing factor to air conditioning maintenance and high energy costs is dirty air filters. It’s recommended that you replace your central AC filters every month in the summer to maximize efficiency.
When it comes to window units, look for the removable filter behind the air inlet grille. You can remove this and rinse it. Even the cleanest of homes are prone to dust and hair build-up which can lead to clogs.
Test your AC’s Efficiency
There is a test you can run to figure out if your unit requires a tune-up. But the catch is that the conditions have to be just right. Your air conditioning needs to be running for at least 15 minutes in a minimum temperature of 27 degrees celsius.
After inserting a fresh air filter – place a thermometer on the supply register and after five minutes note down the temperature. Do this at the return vent as well – the air should be between 14-20 degrees cooler. If your system is not cooling to this range, you may have a leak or be low on refrigerant.
Use Ceiling Fans for Air Circulation
A ceiling fan is a great tool to prevent cool air from falling, and instead, circulate it throughout an entire room. When trying to save money on your energy bill, the ceiling fan can make a room feel up to eight degrees cooler than a room without one just by circulating the existing air.
Use Window Shades to Block Out Sun
A combination of shades and strategically placed trees work in conjunction to keep unwanted heat from entering your home through windows.
It’s especially important to provide coverage on the south and west-facing windows. Insulated curtains are also a great way to keep heat out and cool air in.
Close Vents in Lower Areas of Home
By nature, hot air rises while cool air falls. This is also true for the air inside our homes. That’s why rooms on the upper level are always so much warmer than basements.
By closing off the vents to the lower areas of your home, you can send that air to the upper portion of the home, making it far more comfortable for sleeping.
Schedule Annual HVAC Checkup
It’s never wise to forego maintenance on our cooling systems. An improperly maintained unit uses up to 30 percent more energy and will have a shorter lifespan. On average, a central AC compressor can last a dozen years, but with regular service, you can extend its lifespan for up to 20 years.
It’s important to use a professional HVAC technician for service calls to inspect refrigerant levels and check controls every two to three years. During these service calls the techs will remove built-up dirt, identify any cracks, replace dirty filters, and most importantly, catch any little problem before it turns into a big one.
Contact Us
By implementing the above heating and cooling system tips, you’ll be living in a cooler and more comfortable setting while saving on your energy bill. But when it comes to air conditioner repair and furnace services, trust the experts at ThermEnergy. ThermEnergy has been keeping its customers cool and happy for years thanks to its dedication to customer service and satisfaction. Call them today for all of your HVAC-related needs.