5 Tips to Cut Cooling Costs in the Home

Most homes have an air conditioner since it is a commonplace appliance, however, many homeowners do not realize the actual cost of running these units. When compared with the household fan, a large amount of electricity is needed to run a central air conditioning unit or even a window unit. During the summer months, the cooling expense rises rapidly and it is really important to keep your units maintained year round so they run efficiently to cut down on these costs. This includes smart inside and outside home improvements and pre-season maintenance. The good news is you can eliminate the necessary expense by putting these tips below into use to how much energy you expend and cut on your cooling costs.

Programmable Thermostat

Having a programmable thermostat installed in your home will ensure you do not use up needless energy on cooling or heating your home when you are away or asleep. Utilizing a programmable thermostat to keep your AC unit from running all day may cut your energy costs as much as $180 a year.

Close up Home

In the late mornings and afternoons, pull your curtains, close your windows and shut your blinds. Around 30 percent of a house’s energy is in the typical household through windows. Replace your older windows with new ones and be sure they are made with glass that is energy-efficient. This will help to insulate your home and reduce your cooling expenses.

Dress Light

Wear cooler and natural fabric clothes. Materials and fabrics of silk, cotton and linen will allow the air to pass through and help to keep you cooler. While indoors, wear less clothing and remove tight fitting clothes, shoes and hats when you get home from work. by doing this, you will be able to set your AC unit to a higher setting because you will not be as hot.

Annual Services

Regardless of the age and brand of your AC unit, you still need to have it serviced annually. These tune-ups or services are important in the hot months and are a must for keeping your air conditioning units efficient. They also ensure a cooler home in warm weather and contribute to the life of the components. Once the temperatures outdoors hit 60 degrees, it is a good idea to contact your HVAC contractor and make an appointment for things like checks and repairs, condenser and evaporator coil cleanings, addressing refrigerant levels and adjusting blower components as well as cleaning them.

Check your ductwork

Around 20 percent or more of your cool air escapes before reaching your living area because of faulty ducts. When this occurs, it takes your system that much longer to cool down your house and allows dirt and dust to enter the system which will reduce system efficiency and affect air quality.

Improving your air conditioning in your home and its efficiency is important and can be done by combining simple maintenance tips that are common sense and reducing how much heat comes into your household. By following the steps outlined above, you can improve the efficiency of your air conditioner and cut cooling costs significantly which will keep you comfortable all year long.

Ed Lambert