Are you burdened by escalating utility expenses this summer? To reduce AC costs without losing comfort, you should adopt energy-saving behaviors, implement low-cost changes and make strategic long-term investments. Here are 15 proven techniques to try.
Adopt Good Energy Habits
Trimming cooling system costs may be easier than you think. Here are some totally free ways to ease your monthly power bills:
1. Keep curtains and blinds closed: About 76 percent of the sunlight that hits standard double-pane windows comes into the building as heat. By shutting 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 necessity for air conditioning.
2. Turn up the temperature: You can save up to three percent on your cooling expenses for each degree you raise the temperature. Try setting your thermostat a little 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 space lowers the interior heat gain your air conditioner must combat.
4. Use appliances strategically: Wait to use heat-generating appliances like the oven, dryer and dishwasher until the cool part of the day. This approach lightens your AC’s burden during the hot afternoon, lowering your bill and maximizing home comfort.
5. Run kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans: Remove heat and humidity while cooking and showering to diminish the workload on your air conditioning.
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 expenses. Here are some affordable enhancements to consider:
6. Purchase a programmable thermostat: If you still have an older thermostat, think about upgrading. A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature based on your daily schedule. You can slash AC bills by up to 10 percent by turning the temperature back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours each day. Thanks to automatic recovery periods, you can enjoy these savings without aggravation or discomfort.
7. Schedule regular maintenance: Your air conditioner requires scheduled checkups to make sure it runs easily and efficiently. Maintenance visits every spring also provide a chance to find and resolve little issues before they grow into expensive repairs. This small, predictable cost provides a substantial return on investment through greater efficiency and can lengthen the unit's life.
8. Seal leaks: In lots of homes, leaky windows and doors cause around 25 percent of its cooling energy use. Seal those annoying leaks with caulk and weatherstripping.
9. Add reflective window film: Window film reflects the sun’s rays to the outdoors, limiting solar heat gain. This affordable upgrade is an ideal way to improve your older windows’ efficiency without replacing them.
10. Upgrade to LED lights: LEDs produce almost no heat and consume a lot less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. These properties help keep your home from getting warm and reduce lighting costs as well.
Consider Long-Term Home Investments
If you’re ready93 to make more substantial improvements, 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 adequately insulated. Peek inside the attic, and if you don’t see a substantial, even layer of insulation, think about adding more. Depending on what type of insulation you have, you may 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 reduces sunlight and produces a cool microclimate around your home, naturally cutting down on your cooling requirements.
13. Replace your windows: Old, single-pane windows let in a large amount of heat, making your AC to work harder. Installing double- or triple-pane windows with innovative glazing features increases your home’s air-tightness and keeps the interior cooler.
14. Upgrade your AC system: Operating an aging air conditioner is more costly than you might think. Upgrading from a decade-old 10 SEER model to a modern 15 SEER unit can save you 33 percent on your air conditioning bills. The savings capacity of this purchase is even greater if you’re prepared to invest more up front.
15. Install solar panels: Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity to run your AC unit and other electric appliances. The ongoing savings, together with tax incentives available through 2035, make this a worthwhile investment.
Save More on Your AC in Oklahoma City With Help From Gordon's Service Experts
At Gordon's Service Experts, we go above and beyond the expected to deliver133 top-notch HVAC services that help decrease air conditioning costs in the long run. Because of our superior 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 air conditioning expenditures, please get in touch with the Experts at Gordon's Service Experts. Schedule your appointment today by calling 405-432-2197!