With warmer temperatures just starting to rise, AC use will also be on the rise. With that you will also see a rise in utility costs, as peak times call for peak rates. When it comes to staying cool there are some AC tips to not only help your unit run better over time but also save electricity, another must as rolling blackouts become a threat during peak usage. Check out these AC tips to help keep you cool and help you save!
1. Regular Maintenance
One AC tip we can’t stress enough is to have your unit serviced at regular intervals. A thorough inspection will help your unit run more efficiently and longer. Part of regular maintenance will include cleaning of the unit, as buildup can make your AC run harder and obstruct air flow. So before heavy usage, we recommend having your AC serviced before there is a problem. You may want to consider having a regular service agreement set up.
2. Close Windows and Shades
By closing the windows and drawing the blinds or shades early in the morning when temperatures are cool, you keep the cool air in and the warm aid out decreasing the need to run your AC as much. You can invest in some thermal curtains for better insulation as well to help keep the warm air from penetrating through the windows.
3. Use Your Fans
Fans help circulate the air in your home. Ceiling fans can help make a room feel 6 to 8 degrees cooler which can help curb your AC costs by 40%. Plus you also get the wind chill effect.
4. Adjust Your Thermostat at Night
At night when it is cooler adjust your thermostat. You shouldn’t need to run your AC at full capacity all the time, especially when it cools down in the evening.
5. Turn off the Lights
Having the lights turned on can raise temperatures in your home. Only use lights that you need. This will also help you save on electricity.
6. Insulation
Another AC tip is to check the insulation around the Ducts in attics and crawl spaces. Ducts carry cool air to your home, you will want to make sure that they are properly insulated to keep the cool air from escaping.
7. Check Your Doors and Windows
The caulking around windows and door jams is designed to help keep your home properly insulated. To keep cooler air from escaping and warmer air from penetrating check the seals around your doors and windows.
8. Raise the Temperature When No One is Home
There is no need to run your AC at full capacity when nobody is home, no you don’t want to come home to a hot house, and if you have pets you want them to be comfortable as well so don’t turn it off, simply raise the temperature a little so your unit isn’t working so hard when no one is home.
Running your AC is going to be a must this summer with warmer temperatures already setting in. We hope these AC tips are helpful! For more household tips check out our other articles.
