It’s the season again for hotter temperatures, which means your utility bills are going up! According to a spokesperson from the Environmental Protection Agency, the typical American household spends $2,000 each year on energy expenses. With almost half of the energy bill going towards heating and cooling expenses, it’s time to check out these suggestions for lowering your energy costs and consumption – and using those savings towards a vacation this summer instead.
- Clean Air Conditioner Units and Vents
Putting it simply, a clean air conditioner is an efficient one. The most significant aspect of keeping your unit in good shape is changing or cleaning the filters on a regular basis. A clogged air filter will obstruct airflow and, as a result, damage the evaporator, resulting in a more expensive repair. Replacing an unclean filter in your air conditioning unit may help you save up to 15% on your energy bill.
2. Use a Programmable Thermostat
If you’re trying to keep your energy costs low, don’t leave the air on all hours of the day and night. Our specialists advise leaving the temperature at night lower and then raising it during the day. If you’re forgetful or not home enough to change your thermostat setting, we recommend investing in a programmable thermostat that adjusts the temperature of your home without requiring your presence. Our selection of smart home control thermostats may help you save up to 20% on energy bills while allowing you to remotely control temperatures using your phone, get system diagnostics, and stay up to date on maintenance alerts.
3. Take Advantage of Natural Ventilation
Enjoy the occasionally cool New Jersey evenings while reducing your power usage by opening up windows when it’s cooled down. There’s nothing like sleeping with your windows open on a hot summer night!
4. Close Curtains and Blinds
When you leave your blinds and curtains open during the day, solar heat enters your home and warms it, forcing your air conditioner to work much harder. Closing your blinds when you’re not home can save you 10-15% on summer cooling expenses. Select blinds and drapes may help reduce heat gain in your house by up to 45%.
5. Use a Ceiling Fan
A ceiling fan may be used to keep your home cool while also running your air conditioner at a higher temperature. During the summer, you can turn your ceiling fan counterclockwise to create a cooling wind that will help to efficiently cool your house by drawing cold air up to the ceiling.
6. Check for Proper Home Insulation
According to HouseLogic, increasing the insulation in your home might help you save 10-50% on your heating and cooling expenses. Check for air leaks in your ductwork, attic, and basement. Fixing any leaking ductwork helps to guarantee that cool air doesn’t seep outside and hot outdoor air does not enter your home.
7. Service your HVAC
If you haven’t already, we recommend having your HVAC serviced by one of our professionals before it becomes too hot. The last thing you want to happen this summer is to be forced to endure a malfunctioning AC unit, so don’t put it off any longer! Today’s the day to get your maintenance checkup done on time.
