With the summer heat steadily creeping up, you may be worried about the increase in your cooling bill. After all, nothing beats the refreshing coolness of your air conditioning during the warmest months of the year. However, you don’t have to break the bank in order to keep cool. In this article, we’ll offer some tips and tricks to help you save money on your cooling bill this summer. From keeping an eye on AC temperature in summer months to using ceiling fans, there are plenty of ways to stay cool without draining your wallet. Keep reading to find out more.
Set your AC temperature slightly higher.
During the summertime, keeping your home cool can be an expensive affair. Your air conditioning system accounts for as much as 12 percent of your total energy bills. However, there are several easy steps you can take to lower your cooling costs and save money.
One way to cut down on summer cooling expenses is to set your AC temperature slightly higher. Even a temperature increase of one or two degrees can result in significant energy savings over time. This means that your AC won’t work as hard to maintain a cooler temperature, which results in less energy consumption and a lower energy bill. The United States Department of Energy suggests an AC setting of 78 degrees Fahrenheit as a practical thermostat setting because it helps eliminate heat without spending too much money.
It is also important to remember to turn your temperature setting up when you are not home. If you’re not home, there is no need for the AC to keep running. You can use a programmable thermostat to control the temperature settings based on your schedule, so you don’t have to remember to turn off the AC every time you leave the house. Practicing energy-efficient habits around your home can help you save money on your cooling bill this summer.
Change air filters regularly.
One of the best ways to save money on your cooling bill this summer is by regularly changing your air filters. Air filters play an important role in improving the indoor air quality in your home by trapping dust, pollen, and other allergens. However, when they become clogged with debris, they reduce the airflow through your HVAC system, which causes your system to work harder and use more energy to cool your home. This can result in higher energy bills and unnecessary wear and tear on your HVAC system.
To ensure that your air filters are working efficiently, it’s recommended that they be changed at least every three months, depending on your usage and the manufacturer’s recommendations. By changing your air filters regularly, you can stay cool this summer while also keeping your energy bills in check.
Turn on ceiling fans throughout your house.
One of the most effective ways to keep your cooling costs down this summer is by using ceiling fans throughout your house. Switching on the fans in every room will keep the air circulating, creating a cool breeze that can reduce the need for air conditioning. By using ceiling fans, you can lower your energy consumption and save significantly on your bill.
To get the most out of your ceiling fans, it’s important to use them strategically. First, make sure that your fans are set to rotate counterclockwise during the summer months. This creates a cooling effect by pushing the air down and spreading it throughout the room.
Use window coverings.
Window coverings serve as a barrier between the hot sun and the interior of your home, which helps to keep the area cooler. Installing high-quality window coverings such as shutters, blinds, or shades can reduce the amount of heat that enters your home, thereby lowering your cooling costs. These coverings help to keep your home comfortable as they provide an additional layer of insulation to your windows. This means that they can help to keep the cool air inside your home while preventing heat from entering.
Overall, it is crucial to take the necessary steps to save money on your cooling bill during the summer months. This not only contributes to your financial well-being but also helps reduce energy consumption, ultimately benefiting the environment. By adopting simple strategies like changing your air filters, adjusting your thermostat, and implementing energy-efficient practices, you can save significant amounts of money on your cooling bill.
