Summer Utility Expenses: How to Save on Air-Conditioning Costs

Ahhh the lazy, hazy days of summer … time for lemonade, parades, trips to the beach and… rising energy costs as many homeowners crank up the air conditioning to “beat the heat” and cool their homes. However, keeping your cool in the summer does not mean your wallet has to take a hit. Here are some ideas to save energy and control your summertime utility costs.

• Regardless, if you have a window unit or central cooling system, be sure it is in good repair. Check the air conditioning system’s functioning at least twice a year. Changing filter at least once a month during prime usage months will help keep it running more smoothly and efficiently. Also, be sure to clean condenser coils and fins on the outside of the unit prior to use – even if you have to pay to have for the service it will be worth it for the amount you will save in energy costs in the long run.
• If you have a window unit, place it out of strong afternoon sun. Try to place the air conditioning unit on an east or north-facing part of the house. If you have a shaded area – use it! By strategically placing your cooling unit, you can use nature to your advantage and reduce your cooling costs. As you plan future landscaping projects, consider planting shade producing trees and investing in awnings to help cool your home from the outside in.
• Don’t waste your money cooling rooms or spaces you don’t use on a regular basis. Also, choose an air conditioning unit which is the proper size of the room you want to cool. If the air conditioning unit is too small, it will run continually but never really cool the area. If it is too big, energy will be wasted as it turns off and on.
• Every degree you raise your thermostat in the summer can save you up to 3% on your cooling bill! So, if you can tolerate your home being 78 degrees rather than 73, you can save 15% off your cooling costs! Ceiling fans and box fans will help you circulate air through your home and allow you to keep the temperature higher and your costs down.
• When the weather really heats up, close the fresh air intake on your unit. Why energy (and you money) cooling of the hot air from outside?
• Try to minimize cool air from escaping by reducing the amount of time you open doors to the outside. Keeping the blinds drawn, using lights sparingly and using storm windows to trap cool air will help keep your home at more comfortable temperature and require your air conditioner to do les work.
• Save heat-generating tasks and activities for either very early in the morning or in the evening. Showering, cooking and doing laundry on “off-peak” times will help control the heat in your home and make it easier to cool.

If you are able to make these simple changes in how you air condition your home, you will notice a decrease in your cooling costs and oust those summertime blues!