Financing7 Air Conditioning Tips to Save Money This Summer
August 15, 2023
During this heat wave in Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, Texas, California, New Mexico, and all throughout the country, it’s never been more clear: staying cool is a priority!
Your air conditioner is a lifesaver, but that can come at a price—literally. Running your AC to combat these high temperatures can easily lead to a spike in your energy bills. Fortunately, there are actions you can take to stay comfortable at home while also cutting down on some energy costs.
Tips to Reduce Your Cooling Bill
Some tips to save money on your cooling expenses this summer include:
- Block Out the Sun
Sunlight seeping into your home through windows and any sliding glass doors can significantly raise your indoor temperature. Keep your curtains or blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day to block out the sun’s heat. Consider investing in blackout curtains, reflective window coatings, or solar screens to reduce heat gain.
- Adjust Your Thermostat
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to save money on air conditioning is to properly adjust your thermostat settings. There’s no need to keep your AC blasting cool air all throughout the day, especially when saving money is your goal!
During the day when you know you will be at home, set the thermostat to the highest temperature that still keeps you comfortable. When you leave for work or know you will be outside of your home, increase the temperature even more.
Upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat so the temperature will adjust automatically. Instead of manually increasing or decreasing the temperature, you can schedule what you want the temperature to be during certain times of the day.
Smart thermostats even learn and adapt to your schedule, helping you reduce your cooling costs even more than you could on your own!
According to ENERGY STAR®, upgrading to a smart thermostat could save you up to eight percent on your cooling bills. Invest in a smart thermostat and start saving today!
- Use Your Ceiling Fans to Support Your AC
Take some pressure off your air conditioning system by using any ceiling fans you have installed in your home. Turn them on so they can help circulate the cool air efficiently. Ceiling fans and portable fans can help distribute cool air, making the room feel more comfortable.
Run your fan counterclockwise during the summer to push the cooler air down. Running a fan allows you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher without compromising your comfort, which will lead to energy savings.
- Seal Any Air Leaks
Ensure that your home and air conditioning equipment is properly sealed to prevent cool air from escaping. Air leaks can significantly impact your AC’s efficiency. Check for gaps, tears, and holes so you can have them sealed and prevent energy loss. This simple step can go a long way in reducing your cooling costs.
- Weatherstrip and Insulate Your Home
Be sure your home isn’t losing any conditioned air through cracks or crevices in your windows and doors. Ensure all windows and doors are properly weather-stripped to keep your cool air inside. Proper insulation also helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, preventing cool air from escaping and hot air from infiltrating your home.
- Schedule Regular Maintenance Visits
Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your air conditioning system running efficiently. Dirty, clogged filters and dusty vents with debris can restrict airflow and force your AC to work harder than it needs to. Clean or replace your air filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Schedule professional maintenance at least once a year to ensure your AC remains in top shape and that any potential issues are caught and addressed before they become costly.
- Opt for an Energy-Efficient System
If your current air conditioner is outdated and inefficient, it may be worth considering upgrading to a more energy-efficient model. Newer models are more efficient and could result in lower cooling bills. While the upfront cost may be higher, the long-term energy savings will make it a wise investment.
Staying cool during these hot summer months doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Embrace this season without burning a hole in your pocket. For more energy-saving tips or to schedule service, browse our directory to find a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer.
Call Us for Air Conditioning Services
Sigler can help you find a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer so you can remain feeling cool and comfortable in your home no matter how hot it gets outside! Browse through our directory today.