If you want to lower your cooling costs, turning your air conditioning unit off is not the only way. Besides, this may only decrease indoor comfort and possibly compromise the quality of your air indoors. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to slash your cooling bill without sacrificing too much comfort.
Larsenheatingandair.com shares how you can keep cool and save some money:
Maintain Your Unit
It is not just enough that you have an Energy Star appliance and a programmable thermostat. It is also important to care for your unit to reduce your air cooling costs. Clean AC filters or replace them once a month. If you have central air conditioning system, consult a professional for an annual checkup. This will help identify and address any inefficiencies in your unit.
Choose the Right Size
If you’re just cooling a room or two, it is best to use a room or a window air conditioning unit. This requires less energy and investment than a large appliance or a central air conditioning system for your house. If you’re considering buying a new one, choose the smallest option that will work best for the space. Keep in mind, however, that a small unit may have to work hard if you’re cooling a large or multiple rooms.
Avoid Heat Buildup
When the temperature outdoors exceeds the temperature indoors, take it easy on the activities that generate too much heat. To avoid extra pressure on your AC, you can try washing some clothes by hand and letting them air-dry or grilling food outside. It is also advisable to use an exhaust fan to remove excess heat and humidity.
Use Window Treatments
It is possible to gain significant savings by preventing solar heat using blinds, curtains, and shades. It is best to choose window treatments with a lighter color, as they can deflect sunrays instead of absorbing them. You may also want to consider reflective or insulated shades to save money during hotter months.
Don’t let a high cooling bill make you sacrifice indoor comfort. Follow these tips to lower your bill, and make sure to clean your unit and get an annual check-up.
