We know all about hot and humid summers here in Central Florida. Although you may not be able to control the temperature outside your home, there are many ways you can control your comfort indoors without putting a dent in your pocketbook. Stay cool and comfortable this summer and save energy by following these great tips!
Keep doors and windows closed
Your air conditioning system will be running enough this summer without introducing more warm air from the outside into the mix. When doors and windows are kept open or not closed properly, the result is your air conditioning system will run more than necessary.
Block the sun using window treatments
According to the Department of Energy (DOE), “window coverings can reduce energy loss through the windows, lower heating and cooling bills, and improve home comfort.”1 Use your blinds, curtains, and drapes on the side of your home where the sun comes in. This prevents the solar heat from pouring through and warming your home, causingyour air conditioning system to work overtime.
Use a programmable thermostat
“The average household spends more than $2,000 a year on energy bills – nearly half of which goes to heating and cooling. Homeowners can save about $180 a year by properly setting their programmable thermostats and maintaining those settings,” according to the DOE Tip: The closer the temperatures between the inside and the outside of your home during the summer season, the more you’ll save.
Use a ceiling fan
Utilizing your ceiling fan in the summer in the counterclockwise direction produces an airflow that creates a wind-chill effect that makes you “feel” cooler. “On hotter days, raising the thermostat by only two degrees and using a ceiling fan can reduce air conditioning costs by up to 14%.” Keep in mind that ceiling fans cool you, not the room, so turn them off when you leave a room to avoid wasting energy.
Service your HVAC system
Since almost half of your utility bill is from cooling your home through your HVAC, it makes sense (and cents!) to maintain your system on a regular basis.2 A tune-up will ensure your air conditioning system will work more efficiently, you’ll save money on your energy bill. Additionally, a tune-up can nip problems in the bud which could cost you more down the road.
Change air filters and clean vents
A dirty air filter and dirty air vents will have a similareffect on your system. They both block airflow and cause your air conditioning system to work harder to circulate air and cool your home. Both are inexpensive, easy fixes that can help reduce the amount of energy used to cool your home.
Avoid cooking indoors
When cooking indoors, whether using an oven or stove, additional heat is generated which strains your air conditioning system. The summer months are great for outdoor cooking! Consider grilling outside a couple of times a week or using alternative appliances that produce less heat, such as slow and pressure cookers.
Call an Orlando AC Pro
At Rainaldi Home Services, we can help with all of your cooling needs, including maintenance, repairs, and replacement. If you have questions, we have the air conditioning experts to answer them. Visit our Ask An Expert webpage.
1 https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/energy-efficient-window-attachments
2 https://www.moneytalksnews.com/how-to-get-your-ac-summer-ready/