10 Tips to Lower Your Air Conditioning Bill

One of the biggest bills that homeowners deal with during the summer is the cooling bill. Almost invariably, costs go up for cooling that can make it very difficult to stay comfortable in the summer. The following are ten ways that you can keep your home cooler, without cranking up the AC.

1. Close Shades and Blinds.

Making use of shades and blinds during the day reduces convection in the home, keeping the air closer to as cool as it was during the evening.

2. Set Your AC Intelligently.

It’s common to simply “turn on the AC” and leave it. However, this is not the most energy-efficient ways to use your AC system. Set it to a maximally comfortable setting, and once it’s reached, reduce its output to maintain your comfort level.

3. Seal Leaks and Cracks in Your Home.

One way cool air in your home escapes (requiring more cool air pumped from the AC) is through cracks or leaks. Make sure to seal these leaks, particularly around doors or windows.

4. Has Your AC Professionally Maintained?

Make sure to have your AC system checked by a professional as often as possible, at least every six months. The condition of a unit can change from season to season. Think of it as a tune-up.

5. Change Your Air Filters.

Changing your air filters is often more than enough to make your AC work more efficiently.

6. Take Advantage of Shaded Windows.

Windows which are shaded by foliage a good part of the day can be very useful when your AC is off. Air circulating nearby is often slightly cooler, not being directly affected by sunlight. Or you can also install solar screens on your home or business’ windows.

7. Use a Smart Thermostat.

Smart thermostats can detect optimal comfort levels and maintain them with computerized accuracy. Many can even be programmed to operate cost-efficiently.

8. Create Airflow Through Vents and Ducts.

One way to maximize the efficiency of your cooling system is by making sure that cool air is flowing throughout the house. The easiest way to do this is to keep your vents and ducts open and clear, especially while running the AC.

9. Try Not to Make Your House Hotter.

When your cooking or use a clothes dryer while the AC is on, your producing extra heat. Since stoves and dryers are heat producers, you’re actually destroying the cool air you paid for.

10. Upgrade Your AC Unit.

Finally, while having your AC checked, it might be something to consider to ask your HVAC professional if there are ways to improve or even upgrade your existing AC system.