Summer is all about having fun in the sun. Unfortunately, between family trips and backyard barbecues, expenses can add up quickly – but, don’t let your utility bill be one of them! Durastar is swooping in with some insights regarding ways to lower your air conditioning bill this summer. In fact, conducting simple AC maintenance and learning how to better program your thermostat might just lend you some unexpected pocket money.
If you’re wondering whether your air conditioner will make it through the summer, you might want to read, Do I Need A New Air Conditioner to avoid an unforeseen, costly, and plan-spoiling malfunction.
Is it cheaper to leave my AC on all day?
When you’re amidst a warm spell, keeping your home at a consistent temperature both encourages comfort and discourages a spike in your energy bill. Let’s break it down.
Should I turn off my AC when I leave the house
Say you’re heading out for the day and you turn your AC off. Then, when you get home, your house has warmed up from the heat of the afternoon and you turn your AC on full blast to get it back to a comfortable temperature. Now, your HVAC equipment is running at maximum power, working as hard as it can to achieve the new temperature setting – which, may take a while. Not only does running at full capacity for extended periods require more energy (therefore increasing your electric bill) but it may also cause additional wear and tear on your unit. Instead of turning the air conditioner off when you leave your home, consider simply adjusting the set temperature a few degrees warmer. Then, the system will operate at its lowest power output to maintain that temperature throughout the day. Furthermore, it will not require as much energy to achieve a slightly cooler temperature setting upon your return.
Program your thermostat to lower your air conditioning bill this summer
In addition to slight temperature adjustments, programming your thermostat can also help reduce monthly utility bills – and, it simply makes things easier! With a smart thermostat, you can even check and modify the temperature settings away from home. Say goodbye to worrying about whether or not you adjusted the AC before you left for your summer vacation!
*Pro-tip! Speaking of thermostats, did you know that the placement of your thermostat matters? If it is in a location that receives direct sunlight or cold drafts it can impact the temperature reading. Our experts recommend placing it on an interior wall unaffected by sunlight or opening/closing exterior doors.
Maintenance checklist for your air conditioner.
Like most equipment, regularly maintaining your AC unit will increase both its efficiency and lifespan. Here is a quick and easy checklist to review before kicking your air conditioner into high gear this summer.
- Check and replace your filters regularly.
- Clean evaporator coils, removing all grime.
- Extract leaves, foliage, and other debris on/and surrounding the outdoor unit.
- Inspect coil fins to ensure none are bent and therefore blocking the airflow.
*Pro-tip! In addition to the maintenance suggestions above, Durastar recommends hiring a qualified HVAC professional to conduct a yearly inspection of all your heating and cooling equipment. From checking connections and fluids to removing buildup, this small expense can increase efficiency and prevent equipment failure – saving you big.
Keep hot air out and cold air in.
Once your air conditioner is running efficiently and you’ve programmed your smart thermostat, it is time to turn our attention to other factors that contribute to keeping your home cool.
Block out the sun
Have you noticed certain rooms heating up throughout the day? Perhaps you have south or west-facing windows that get a good dose of sun. If this is the case, then we recommend taking some steps to block those rays from heating your home. Consider installing heavy curtains or planting nearby trees for additional coverage. Otherwise, your AC will have to work harder to counteract the warmth.
Check for drafts and seal small leaks
Stop cool air from escaping and warm air from seeping in by checking windows, doors, and other areas for drafts. Once you’ve identified weak points, use caulk, foam strips, or weather stripping to seal the gaps. In addition, be sure to use the lock feature on windows and tall doors to achieve tight closure.
Be mindful when cooking and operating appliances
Many appliances generate heat. For example, the dishwasher, laundry machines, and of course, cooktops. Try running these appliances early in the day or late in the evening when the heat has settled outside. In addition, consider washing clothes using the cold cycle and opting for air drying. Pre-made meals and salads can also help reduce heat generated from cooking.
Adjust your ceiling fans for summer.
Do you know which direction your fan should spin during summer to give you the best breeze? Counterclockwise! When you’re staying in one room for an extended period, turn on your ceiling fan for additional cooling power. If you get too chilly, adjust your thermostat first.
*Pro-trip! Don’t forget to switch your fan back to spinning clockwise during the winter season to Save On Winter Heating Bills.
Reduce monthly utility bills with high-efficiency HVAC equipment.
One of the biggest contributing factors to high electricity bills in the summer is inefficient HVAC equipment. Although replacing outdated air conditioners can come with an upfront cost, it is sure to save in the long run. If your equipment is ready for an upgrade, get a complete system from Durastar and optimize energy savings. As a trusted supplier, we invest in Energy Star products that are tested to perform and built to last. Talk to your trusted HVAC contractor today to discuss whether or not a new AC unit would help lower your air conditioning bill this summer.