Ways to Lower Air Conditioning Costs in the Summer
As summer approaches, Air conditioning bills are on the rise. As a homeowner, your goal is to minimize energy costs as much as possible, especially in the summer. This is when air conditioners are running through a large part of the day. There are several steps you can take to keep your home cool, even when it’s pretty hot outside.
Here are some tips on how to lower AC costs in summer.
Use a Circulating Fan
Switching the ceiling fan on while the AC is on is actually a good idea. A ceiling fan or any other circulating fan helps disperse cool air more efficiently around the room. This lowers the temperature of the room significantly. This also helps save costs as the room cools more quickly. You can also lower your thermostat by four degrees after switching on the fan without any discomfort.
Shade Trees Help
Planting shade trees around the house can help keep your home cool. This also helps reduce AC bills in the long run. The shade provided by trees will reduce the amount of sunlight that enters through windows. As a result, your house won’t get very hot. Your AC will not have to work very hard to cool down the place. This will also increase your AC unit’s efficiency. Planting Red Maple and River Birch trees is a good idea as they grow fast and provide plenty of shade.
Keep Your Windows Covered
Make sure your curtains are drawn, so sunlight does not directly enter the room. You can also install solar screens to absorb solar energy before it enters the house. These window screens work best if your window is east or westward facing.
Get A Smart Thermostat
Getting a smart thermostat can significantly reduce AC costs. Your thermostat will enable you to set your home’s temperature to a certain level whenever you want. This will make sure your house is always comfortable. You can also control the thermostat remotely. But for your thermostat to work efficiently, make sure you place it at the right location. It should be placed away from direct sunlight and skylight. It should also be away from doorways and windows.
Service Your AC Regularly
If your AC is inefficient, it will automatically increase your cost. Therefore, service your AC so that it runs efficiently. Make sure you clean and replace your AC’s filters every few months. This is because dirty filters or clogged filters can decrease airflow and make your AC inefficient. Also, check if the condenser and evaporator are clean and have not collected dust.