1st Choice Heating and Air Conditioning
The Temperature Rises (And So Does The Energy Bill)
7 Tips to Help You Save this Summer
Warmer weather has arrived. As temperatures begin to soar, people typically watch as their electric bill does the same. But before you shell out big bucks this season, make sure to add these easy, affordable air conditioning efficiency tasks to the top of your to-do list. They’ll help your wallet (and give back to Mother Nature).
To learn more about air conditioning efficiency and how you can achieve complete indoor comfort, contact 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning.
- Close your blinds or curtains during the day.
This method, which is frequently used to keep heat in during the winter months, can also effectively keep the cool air in the house during the warmer months. Closing blinds and curtains facing the sun will prevent the sun’s heat from warming up your home – while allowing the air conditioner to do what it does best.Download our complimentary infographic to learn 7 tips that will help you save this summer.
- Use your appliances wisely.
Your appliances use a lot of energy and generate a large amount of heat. So, use them wisely. For example, line dry your clothes whenever you can and use your dishwasher only when it is fully loaded. - Use a programmable thermostat to set your air conditioner higher while you are away or asleep.
You can save 3 to 5 percent on your air conditioning costs for each degree you raise the thermostat. So, set your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature. We recommend 78°F or higher when you’re home, and 85°F when you’re away or at night. - Seal air leaks and minimize door traffic.
Weather-strip, seal, and caulk leaky doors and windows to save up to 20% on your cooling bill, while increasing home comfort. - Use a ceiling or oscillating fan to circulate the air.
Fans effectively circulate the air in a room and cool the space. When using your air conditioning unit, a ceiling fan will enable you to raise the thermostat setting roughly 4°F, with no reduction in comfort. In temperate climates, fans may allow you to avoid using your air conditioner altogether. Of course, when you leave a room, always be sure to turn the fan off. - Turn off unnecessary lights and use energy-efficient bulbs.
Turn off all lights before you leave a room. Plus, replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient bulbs, which use less energy and give off less heat. - Consider using the outdoor grill instead of the oven.
Meal preparation significantly heats up your home, causing your air conditioner to work harder and longer. Whenever possible, cook outside.