Because of the increased use of air conditioning, energy expenditures tend to grow in tandem with rising summer temperatures. Nonetheless, there are a plethora of doable tactics that householders can utilize to control cooling expenses without sacrificing comfort or efficiency.
1. Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat is an investment that can pay for itself in reduced cooling costs. These gadgets let you establish schedules for the temperature, so it goes up while you’re not around or asleep and down when you are. If you plan your cooling schedule well, you won’t have to worry about wasting electricity when it’s not needed.
2. Seal Air Leaks
Significant energy loss and increased cooling costs can result from air leaks around ducts, windows and doors. Caulking or weatherstripping these cracks will keep warm air in and cold air out of your house. Pay close attention to the spaces around doors and windows, for example, where air leaks or drafts are easily detectable. If you suspect any ductwork leaks, have an HVAC expert take a look and fix them.
3. Use Fans Wisely
To enhance the efficiency of your air conditioning system, consider adding ceiling fans and portable fans to your home’s ventilation system. You can make the most of higher thermostat settings by using fans to provide a wind-chill effect in the rooms you spend the most time in. When you leave a room with a fan on, remember to turn it off to save energy.
4. Close Blinds and Curtains
Keep the sun and window heat out by closing blinds and drapes during the hottest hours. By taking this easy measure, you can greatly decrease the amount of heat that enters your home, making your air conditioner work less. To further reduce heat, you might want to think about getting some blackout or reflective curtains.
5. Maintain Your HVAC System
To maintain adequate airflow and cut down on energy usage, change the air filters every one to three months, or as directed by the manufacturer. To optimize performance and prolong the lifespan of your system, schedule annual expert maintenance to examine and clean components, including coils and ducts.
6. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
Common household appliances that produce heat during operation include HVAC systems, stoves, washing machines and dryers. Choose energy-efficient appliances that consume less power and generate less heat to lower the total amount of heat gain in your home. To ensure your appliance meets the stringent energy efficiency standards set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, look for ones with Energy Star certification.
7. Insulate and Ventilate
A pleasant indoor climate and lower cooling bills are the results of well-insulated and well-ventilated spaces. Make sure your attic has sufficient insulation to keep heat outside your house. During the summer, you can keep your attic from getting too hot by installing fans or vents there. Not only does good ventilation aid in temperature regulation, but it also keeps moisture from pooling and mildew from becoming an issue.
8. Create Cross Ventilation
The best way to let in fresh air is to open the windows on opposing sides of your house so a cross breeze can circulate. In doing so, you let fresh, outdoor air spread throughout your home, which helps to disperse stagnant, heated air. To further improve natural ventilation and lessen the need for air conditioning, strategically place window fans to bring in cool air and expel warm air.
9. Use Heat-Reducing Landscaping
You can lower the amount of heat that your home’s façade absorbs by strategically placing landscaping and vegetation that provides natural shade. Shade yourself from the sun’s fiercest rays by planting trees or plants close to sunny windows and walls. Pick plants that can withstand dry conditions; they will shade your space effectively with minimal water and care.
10. Consider Zoned Cooling
Zoned cooling is a great way to maximize energy efficiency and comfort in a house with multiple stories or rooms with different temperature requirements. By adjusting dampers in the ductwork, a zoned cooling system can independently regulate the airflow to various rooms in the house. This makes it possible to cool only the sections that are actually in use, which increases cooling efficiency and reduces energy waste.
Allegiance Heating & Cooling is here to help you save as much money as possible this summer on your cooling costs. We specialize in HVAC installations, repairs and maintenance. We also offer air purification solutions, air duct cleaning, home water filtration and commercial services. Contact us to learn more about different ways to lower your summer cooling costs.
