Are you stressed by increasing utility expenses this summer? To cut AC costs without sacrificing comfort, you should adopt energy-saving routines, implement low-cost changes and make strategic long-term investments. Here are 15 effective tips to consider.
Adopt Good Energy Habits
Trimming AC costs may be easier than you think. Here are some totally free ways to ease your monthly utility bills:
1. Keep curtains and blinds closed: Around 76 percent of the sunlight that hits standard double-pane windows comes into the building as heat. By closing out the sun with insulating curtains and blinds over your south- and west-facing windows, you lessen solar heat gain in the afternoon and reduce the need for air conditioning.
2. Turn up the temperature: You can save up to three percent on your AC costs for each degree you increase the temperature. Try setting your thermostat a bit higher than usual and using a fan to make up the difference.
3. Turn off the lights when not in use: Lights, especially incandescent bulbs, create a lot of heat. Turning them off when you aren't in the area decreases the interior heat gain your AC must combat.
4. Use appliances prudently: Wait to use heat-generating appliances like the oven, dryer and dishwasher until the coolest time of the day. This approach lightens your AC’s load during the hot afternoon, bringing down your bill and improving home comfort.
5. Run kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans: Eliminate heat and humidity while cooking and showering to reduce the workload on your AC.
Invest in Low-Cost Upgrades
If you’re willing to spend a few dollars, you can put an even greater dent in your air conditioning costs. Here are some affordable enhancements to consider:
6. Set up a programmable thermostat: If you still have a traditional thermostat, look into upgrading. A programmable thermostat automatically modifies the temperature depending on your routine. You can slash AC bills by up to 10 percent by setting the temperature back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours per day. Thanks to automatic recovery periods, you can enjoy these savings without aggravation or discomfort.
7. Schedule regular maintenance: Your AC should have routine checkups to ensure it runs correctly and efficiently. Maintenance visits every spring also provide a chance to find and take care of minor issues before they grow into expensive repairs. This small, predictable expense provides a substantial return on investment through greater efficiency and helps your AC last as long as possible.
8. Seal leaks: In a large number of homes, leaky windows and doors are the culprit behind about 25 percent of its cooling energy use. Fix those troublesome leaks with caulk and weatherstripping.
9. Install reflective window film: Window film reflects the sun’s rays to the outdoors, limiting solar heat gain. This economical upgrade is a very good way to improve your older windows’ efficiency without updating them.
10. Upgrade to LED lights: LEDs create almost no heat and consume considerably less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. These properties help keep your home more comfortable and cut down on lighting costs as well.
Consider Long-Term Home Investments
If you’re looking93 to make more extensive changes, consider the following investments to cut AC costs in the long run:
11. Insulate the attic: Hot air can get through the ceiling if your attic is not properly insulated. Peer inside the attic, and if you don’t see a substantial, even layer of insulation, consider adding more. Depending on what form of insulation you select, you might need to contact a professional for the job.
12. Plant trees for natural shade: Planting leafy trees on the south and west sides of your house obstructs sunlight and creates a cool microclimate around your home, naturally reducing your cooling requirements.
13. Replace your windows: Old, single-pane windows let in quite a bit of heat, requiring your AC to work harder. Buying new double- or triple-pane windows with advanced glazing features increases your home’s air-tightness and keeps the interior cooler.
14. Upgrade your AC system: Running an aging air conditioner hurts your wallet more than you might think. Upgrading from a decade-old 10 SEER model to a modern-day 15 SEER unit can save you 33 percent on your air conditioning expenses. The savings potential of this purchase is even greater if you’re willing to invest more up front.
15. Install solar panels: Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity to power your AC unit and other electric devices. The ongoing cost savings, coupled with tax incentives available through 2035, make this a beneficial investment.
Save More on Your AC in Knoxville With Help From R & M Climate Control Service Experts
At R & M Climate Control Service Experts, we go the extra mile to make sure our customers get133 top-notch HVAC services that help reduce air conditioning costs in the long run. Because of our top-quality products, Expert knowledge and attention to detail, we feel very comfortable backing our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. To learn more about how we can help lower your summer AC expenditures, please contact the Experts at R & M Climate Control Service Experts. Schedule your appointment today by calling 865-229-6176!