Are you burdened by increasing utility expenses this summer? To cut AC costs without compromising comfort, you should adopt energy-saving habits, implement low-cost changes and make strategic long-term investments. Here are 15 proven techniques to consider.
Adopt Good Energy Habits
Cutting AC expenses may be easier than you think. Here are some totally free ways to ease your monthly utility bills:
1. Keep curtains and blinds closed: Around 76 percent of the sunlight that beats down on standard double-pane windows comes into the building as heat. By closing out the sun with insulating curtains and blinds over your south- and west-facing windows, you lower solar heat gain in the afternoon and reduce the demand for air conditioning.
2. Turn up the temperature: You can save up to three percent on your air conditioning expenses for each degree you raise the temperature. Try turning up the temperature on your thermostat a tad higher than usual and running a fan to make up the difference.
3. Flip off the lights when not in use: Lights, especially incandescent bulbs, make a whole lot of heat. Turning them off when you leave the room lowers the interior heat gain your air conditioner must combat.
4. Use appliances prudently: Wait to use heat-generating appliances like the oven, dryer and dishwasher until the cool time of the day. This approach reduces your AC’s burden during the hot afternoon, minimizing your bill and maximizing home comfort.
5. Run kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans: Get rid of 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 invest a few dollars, you can put an even greater dent in your air conditioning spending. Here are some cost-effective enhancements to consider:
6. Set up a programmable thermostat: If you still have a manual thermostat, consider upgrading. A programmable thermostat automatically modifies the temperature based on your schedule. You can slash AC bills by up to 10 percent by setting the temperature back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours each day. Thanks to automatic recovery periods, you can experience these savings without aggravation or discomfort.
7. Schedule regular maintenance: Your air conditioner should have routine checkups to make sure it runs effectively and efficiently. Maintenance visits every spring also provide a chance to find and solve minor issues before they grow into expensive repairs. This small, predictable cost provides a significant return on investment through increased efficiency and prolonged equipment life span.
8. Seal leaks: In lots of homes, leaky windows and doors are responsible for about 25 percent of its cooling energy use. Seal those irritating leaks with caulk and weatherstripping.
9. Add reflective window film: Window film reflects the sun’s rays to the exterior, decreasing solar heat gain. This affordable upgrade is a great way to improve your older windows’ efficiency without buying new ones to replace them.
10. Upgrade to LED lights: LEDs produce almost no heat and utilize considerably less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. These qualities help keep your home cooler and lower lighting costs as well.
Consider Long-Term Home Investments
If you’re ready93 to make more substantial modifications, explore the following investments to cut cooling costs in the long run:
11. Insulate the attic: Hot air can seep through the ceiling if your attic is not sufficiently insulated. Take a look inside the attic, and if you don’t see a thick, even layer of insulation, think about adding more. Depending on what type of insulation you choose, you could need to employ a professional for the job.
12. Plant trees for natural shade: Planting leafy trees on the south and west sides of your house obstructs sunlight and generates a cool microclimate around your home, naturally cutting down on your cooling demands.
13. Replace your windows: Old, single-pane windows let in quite a bit of heat, requiring your HVAC system to work harder. Buying new double- or triple-pane windows with state-of-the-art glazing features elevates your home’s air-tightness and keeps the interior cooler.
14. Upgrade your AC system: Running an aging air conditioner hurts your wallet more than you might think. Upgrading from a decade-old 10 SEER model to a modern-day 15 SEER unit can save you 33 percent on your cooling costs. The savings opportunities of this purchase is even higher if you’re willing to invest more up front.
15. Install solar panels: Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity to operate your air conditioner and other electric devices. The ongoing savings, together with tax incentives available through 2035, make this a valuable investment.
Save More on Your AC in Memphis With Help From Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
At Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, we go above and beyond the expected to deliver133 top-notch HVAC services that help cut air conditioning costs in the long run. Because of our top-quality products, Expert knowledge and attention to detail, we feel confident backing our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. To learn more about how we can help lower your summer AC expenses, please contact the Experts at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. Schedule your appointment today by calling 901-235-1196!