Temperatures are rising and so will the cost of keeping your home comfortable. You can lessen the cost of your utility bill with a few easy steps. Check out these tips to reduce cooling costs this summer.
7 Tips to Reduce Cooling Costs at Home
Seal Air Leaks
It’s less expensive to keep your home comfortable if your home is well-sealed. Air leaks around your windows and doors may be letting hot, humid air inside. That makes your air conditioner work harder, driving up cooling costs.
Check for air leaks around your windows and doors. Seal leaks around the frame with caulk or spray foam. Use weatherstripping around the openings of the doors and windows.
Install and Use a Programmable Thermostat
Don’t run the air conditioning at low temperatures when family members are at work or school. Set a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule. That way you don’t have to remember to adjust the temperature every time you’re away from home.
Have an HVAC professional install the programmable thermostat. Then, learn how to use it. It can save you up to 10% on your power bills year-round.
Reduce Cooling Costs by Using the Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans help circulate the air, making you feel cooler. Running a ceiling fan costs less than running the AC at a lower temperature. Turn on ceiling fans to supplement the air conditioning. Make sure the ceiling fan is running counterclockwise in the summer.
If you don’t have ceiling fans currently, hire an electrician to have them installed. They will help you stay comfortable and use very little energy.
Keep the Sunlight Out
When sunlight comes through the windows, it can heat up a room. While you may enjoy a bright sunny room, you will pay more in energy bills. Close the curtains and drapes to block the sun during the hottest parts of the day. Use room-darkening curtains to better block the rays.
Replace Air Filters
Dust can accumulate in your air ducts, vents, and filters. This causes the system to run inefficiently, which drives up your cooling costs. Before the weather warms up, change your air filter. Then, change the filter based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Avoid Using Appliances in the Middle of the Day
The stove, oven, dishwasher, and dryer produce heat. If possible, avoid using these appliances in the warmest part of the day. Cookout on the grill a few times a week. Put your laundry out to dry on a clothesline.
Have Your AC Serviced to Reduce Cooling Costs
At least once a year, have an HVAC professional come out to do maintenance on your AC. This type of service helps keep the system running efficiently, which helps reduce cooling costs. Plus, routine service lowers the chances of a breakdown and extends the system’s life.
Reveal360 provides inspection services to Northern Colorado. Contact us to schedule a home inspection.