As the weather heats up, the first instinct for many of us is to crank up the air conditioning. However, AC units (especially those 15+ years old) are notoriously expensive to run, and the cost to cool your home can quickly add up. The last thing you want is for your AC costs to drastically rise. If you’re looking for ways to lower your AC costs this summer, there are a few things you can do.
Ways to Keep Your AC Costs in Check This Summer:
1.Close Curtains, Blinds, and Shades
Leaving your curtains, blinds, and shades open can increase your AC usage and as a result, increase your AC Costs. One of the simplest things you can do is close your curtains, blinds, and shades during the day. This will help to block out the sun’s heat, keeping your home cooler and saving you money on your energy bills. You might also want to invest in some reflective window film, which can block up to 80% of the sun’s heat.
2.Maintain Your Cooling Systems
This means regularly cleaning or changing the air filter and having a professional tune-up done every year. Dirty air filters not only make your AC work harder and raise AC costs, but they can also lead to health problems. Make sure to check and clean your filters at least once a month during the summer months. Regular maintenance can help to improve efficiency and prevent costly repairs down the line.
3.If You Cool an Empty House Your AC Costs Will Skyrocket
Despite it seeming obvious, many people forget to shut off or turn up their AC system before they leave for vacation. Do not leave your AC running at the same temperature as at home while you are away on vacation or extended trip. Leaving your AC at the same temperature will increase your AC costs. Consider installing a smart/wi-fi thermostat if you want your house to be cool when you return.
4.Use a Ceiling Fan or Other Circulating Fan to Lower AC Costs
By circulating the air in your home, you can actually make it feel cooler, even if the temperature hasn’t changed. And, by circulating the air, you’ll also help to distribute the cool air from your AC unit more evenly. As a result, you won’t have to run your AC as often, and your AC costs will be lower. If you can change the rotation of your fan, most should spin counter-clockwise in the summer and clockwise in the winter.
5.Lower AC Costs by Investing in an Energy-Efficient System
If your air conditioning bill is giving you sticker shock, it may be time to upgrade to a more energy-efficient system. While the initial investment can be pricey, you’ll save money in the long run by using less energy to keep your home cool. Here are a few things to look for when choosing a new AC unit:
- A SEER rating of 13 or higher. The SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures how much energy an AC unit uses to cool a space. A higher SEER rating means more efficiency.
- Energy Star certification. This designation is given to products that meet strict energy-efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency.
- An inverter compressor. This type of compressor adjusts its speed to match the cooling needs of your home, which can save energy and money.
Investing in a new air conditioner may seem like a daunting task, but it’s worth it in the long run. You’ll stay cool all summer while keeping more money in your pocket. If you’re looking for ways to reduce your cooling costs this summer, be sure to contact the professionals at Sure-Fire. We have a wide range of products and services that can help keep your home or office cool and comfortable all season long. Don’t wait – call us today for a free consultation!
