During the summertime, the hot temperatures can make a home uncomfortable and the best technique to tackle the scorching heat is by the use of air conditioner. The rising temperatures drive many homeowners to own an air conditioner for a comfortable living, but some are shying away from them due to the fear of increased electricity bill. However, there is no need to worry your bill, with the tips below we will show you how to save money on air conditioning bill.
How to Save Money on Air Conditioning Bill - Ways to Conserve
1. Avoid Heat Buildup During the Day
When the outdoor temperature is higher than the temperature inside, minimize the activities that generate a lot of heat. Instead of using clothes dryer, dishwasher, and cooking on a stovetop opt to hang your clothes on the clotheslines, wash your dishes by hand, and microwave food or grill it outside. Alternatively, use your clothes drier or dishwasher in the evening when the temperature has dropped and this will ensure you save money on electricity.
2. Close Curtains, Blinds and Shades
Regardless of whether you use blinds, curtains and shades, you can save a lot by preventing solar heat from getting into your house. According to experts, highly reflective blinds reduce heat gain by nearly 45% when they are closed on a sunny window. Therefore, if you want to save, use light-colored treatments that will deflect the rays of the scorching sun and ensure the shades are hung close to window panes to block outdoor heat.
3. Install a Programmable Thermostat
Thanks to the advanced technology, installing a programmable thermostat adjusts temperatures when you’re not at home or when asleep, and this cuts energy usage. You can buy a thermostat that automatically adapts to the temperatures according to your preferences or program them by yourself. Adjusting the temperature by 7-10 degrees for 8 hours daily and given that programmable thermostat automates the process, you’ll end up saving on your electricity bill. At times, people tend to experience challenges and say, my ac isn't cold. If you experience the same problem too, check thermostat settings and adjust accordingly.
4. Using Ceiling Fans
Having ceiling fans in your house makes you feel 6 or 7 degrees cooler. In other words, ceiling fans usually circulate cool air eliminating the need to turn on your air conditioning system. Installing ceiling fans throughout your house is a walk in the park and at the end of the day, it will help you save a lot. As a rule of thumb, remember to turn off the fan when you don’t need it.
5. Replace Your HVAC Air Filters
Air filters ensure HVAC system run efficiently as it prevents dust from blocking the vents, thereby enhancing air circulation. If the air filters get dirty, they inhibit airflow making the units to work harder than normal to cool your home. Therefore, replace your filters after a few months or clean them regularly and you’ll end up lowering AC’s energy consumption by 5-10%.
Bottom line
The cost of cooling a home during the warmer weather is enough to make you sweat especially if you’re on a tight budget. Even though it’s impossible to control the temperature outside, you can definitely do something to cool your house and minimize air conditioning cost and the above techniques will teach you how to save money on air conditioning bill.
