Keeping your cool during the summer is a must, but nobody wants a sky-high electricity bill at the end of the month. The good news is there are many things you can do to make your air conditioner (AC) work more efficiently so that you can save money and keep your wallet happy.
Think about where the sun shines on your house. During the hottest part of the day, take note of whether it is directly blasting your AC unit. If so, planting trees or shrubs around your AC can provide shade and help it run cooler. An AC unit that is not baking in the sun does not have to work as hard to keep you comfortable, which translates to lower energy bills.
Tiny gaps and cracks around your windows and doors might seem insignificant, but they can actually let a lot of cool air escape from your home. This forces your AC to work harder to keep things chilly, and this wastes energy. Invest in some weather stripping or caulk and seal up those leaks. You might be surprised at the difference it makes!
Just like you need to breathe clean air, so does your AC unit. A clogged air filter restricts airflow and makes your AC work overtime. Check your air filter once a month and replace it when it gets dirty.
Every degree you crank down the thermostat makes your AC work a little harder. Try bumping it up a couple of degrees and see if you can still stay comfortable. You might not even notice the difference, but your wallet definitely will!
If you have a programmable thermostat, take advantage of it! Set it to automatically adjust the temperature when you are not home or at night. There is no point in blasting the AC when nobody is there to enjoy it.
Ceiling fans do not actually cool the air, but they can make you feel cooler. The circulating air creates a windchill effect that allows you to raise the thermostat a degree or two without feeling uncomfortable. Just remember to turn the fan off when you leave the room to avoid wasting energy.
Sunlight streaming through your windows can add unwanted heat to your home, and this makes your AC work harder. During the hottest part of the day, consider closing curtains or blinds on south-facing windows to keep the heat out.
Schedule a yearly maintenance check with our licensed technicians. They can clean your unit, check for any problems and make sure it is running at peak efficiency.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long without breaking the bank. Start out the summer by calling Crocker Refrigeration Heating and Air for air conditioning services in Santa Barbara, CA.
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