5 Ways You Can Reduce Your Cooling Expenses This Summer
Some estimates suggest that your air conditioning may account for as much as 50% of your summer electricity consumption, especially when it’s hot and humid outside. Discover five ways you can easily reduce the amount of energy you’re consuming each day and your expenses this summer.
1. Replace Your Air Filter
A clogged air filter will restrict airflow into your air conditioner, reducing its efficiency and increasing your costs. Plan to check your filters every month, and expect to change the common 1- and 2-inch filter every 30 to 90 days.
2. Leverage Thermostat Programs
The Department of Energy estimates that you can save up to 10% of your annual cooling costs by using your thermostat’s programs. Use these settings to increase your home’s temperature by at least 7 degrees during the times when you’re not home to reduce the amount your air conditioner runs.
3. Draw Your Shades
One of the best ways to reduce the amount of work your air conditioner performs is to reduce the heat in your home. Keeping thermal heating down is key, so draw your blinds and shades when the sun is beating in on your windows.
4. Manage Heat Producing Activities
There are a lot of things you may do in your home that will generate heat and humidity, including cooking, laundry, and dishes. Hold off on those activities until the early morning hours or after the heat of the day has subsided to reduce the amount of work demanded of your air conditioner.
5. Get AC Maintenance
AC maintenance is one of the best ways to keep your air conditioner running efficiently and keep your costs down. During maintenance, your technician will perform a deep cleaning, test various functions of the system, tune the system’s components, and tighten the electrical connections and mounting hardware to keep your system running efficiently throughout the summer.
Property owners around Charlottesville have turned to Beck Cohen to keep their homes comfortable and safe since 1955. Our expert team provides heating and air conditioning maintenance, repair and installation, along with indoor air quality, generator, plumbing and electrical services. Call to schedule your AC maintenance or repair with one of our experienced technicians today.