Summer’s almost here, and air conditioners are in prep mode for a hot season! Cooling costs can be a big expense, and the worst thing you can do for your air conditioner is overwork it. Luckily, you don’t need to buy a new, high efficiency air conditioner to save money. There are little things homeowners can do to aid their cooling systems. If you keep the inside of your home as cool as possible, it gives the air conditioner longer breaks, therefore saving on energy bills. Here’s how to keep your home cool and save on cooling costs.
Change Filters
First and foremost, a quick and easy filter change is vital! It’s not only good for your air conditioner, but it also prevents the system from overworking itself. Fortunately, filters are easy and relatively cheap to change out yourself. Click here for more information about filter fundamentals.
Use Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans can save up to 40% on cooling costs when used correctly. Ceilings fans should be turning counterclockwise in the summer to move cool air down. The cool air moves down to the floor and the high speed air evaporates perspiration to create a wind chill effect.
Use Blinds and Curtains
The hot sun beating down on your home all day does exactly what it sounds like. Keeping your home shaded is extremely beneficial to keeping your home cool. Not only can the trees outside shade your home, but blinds and curtains also assist in the prevention of extra heat from entering the home. This is such an easy way to keep out the heat of the sun from entering your home. The more shade your home gets, the cooler it is!
Seal Windows and Doors
Drafty doors and windows could be releasing precious cool air out of the house. The more cool air leaving your home, the more work your air conditioner will have to do to keep the temperature down. Sealing all the doors and windows helps keep all the cool air in and the warm air out.
Get a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats save lots of money because they can be programmed to adjust temperatures when you’re not even home. There’s no point in keeping your home an ice box if nobody’s there enjoying it. These thermostats can be scheduled for certain temperatures at certain times.
Avoid the Stove and Oven
It seems too obvious, but not using these heating sources really helps keep the temperature down. Stick to the cold foods this summer!
Service Your Air Conditioner
Lastly, the best way to ensure maximum efficiency and longevity of your air conditioner is to get it serviced by a local HVAC company. Poormans is a trusted, family-owned company who specializes in routine maintenance. We offer annual maintenance plans with thorough, attentive technicians. Call Poormans for more info about maintenance or repairs on any system you’ve got. We’re here to help!