With summer temperatures on the rise, it can be tempting to crank up the air conditioning in order to stay cool. Unfortunately, this isn’t only uncomfortable — it’s also expensive. Air conditioners consume a lot of energy, and as a result, your electricity bills will skyrocket during the summer months. However, there are many ways you can stay comfortable without breaking the bank.
Here are some tips for making sure your air conditioner is running efficiently and saving you money in the process.
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1. Change Your Air Filter
A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, making it difficult for your AC to cool your home efficiently. Make sure to get a regular AC tune-up that includes having someone change or clean your air filter on a regular basis in order to maximize efficiency and reduce energy costs.
2. Keep Your Thermostat at 78 Degrees
Setting your thermostat higher than 78 degrees won’t just reduce energy costs; it will also help keep your house cooler by circulating cooler air. When it’s hot outside, try setting your thermostat a few degrees higher when you’re away from the house.
This will ensure that you’re still comfortable when you return and also help lower energy use.
3. Use Fans
Ceiling fans and portable fans can be great for cooling down the temperature during summer months without using an air conditioner. Make sure to turn off any fans in unoccupied rooms so they don’t waste energy needlessly, but having them on in occupied areas can help to circulate the air and cool you down.
You’ll find that these fans use significantly less energy than an air conditioner, meaning your electricity bill won’t soar when it gets hot outside.
4. Insulate Your Home
Many homes lose cool air through their walls, roof, windows, or other areas due to inadequate insulation. Sealing off these drafts and investing in higher-quality materials that can effectively block out heat transfer will not only make your home more comfortable during the summer months; it will also help reduce your energy costs by keeping the cool air inside and ensuring that you don’t have to rely on your air conditioner as much.
Adding extra insulation in attics and basements can also be beneficial for reducing energy costs.
And if you live in an area with extreme temperatures, keep an eye out for new developments in window treatments which are designed to better insulate windows against heat transfer.
5. Invest In Energy-Efficient Appliances
When it comes to reducing energy costs, investing in energy-efficient appliances is one of the most effective strategies out there.
Not only do these appliances use less energy than their older counterparts; they also come with various additional features that enhance comfort and convenience.
Look for appliances with an Energy Star rating — this indicates that they use at least 20 percent less energy than required by federal standards.
6. Utilize Natural Ventilation
Taking advantage of natural ventilation can help you stay cool without relying on your air conditioner too much.
Whenever possible, open up windows and doors to let in the natural breeze or install fans around your home to promote airflow without having to resort to the AC. If you live in an area with cooler nights, take advantage of the naturally cool air during these times to reduce your energy costs and keep your home comfortable.
Additionally, consider planting trees or shrubs near windows and other parts of your house to provide shade and block out unwanted heat.
In Conclusion
With these tips for making sure your air conditioner is running efficiently, you can save money on energy costs while still staying comfortable during hot summer months. Even small changes to how you use and manage your air conditioner can make a big difference in terms of reducing your electricity bill and helping the environment. Investing in more energy-efficient appliances and insulating your home will also go a long way towards keeping cool without breaking the bank.
