Stay Cool and Save Money This Summer
Summer will be here soon, and you’re probably looking forward to some bright, sunny days. Unfortunately, warm weather can bring bad news in the form of high energy bills. You don’t have to fork over the big bucks to enjoy your summer. Here are some tips to keep your cool while keeping your costs under control.
Raise the Temperature
Air conditioning efficiency is the biggest summertime hog. To save money, try setting your air conditioner at a temperature that’s close to the temperature outdoors. The smaller the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your cooling bill will be. Try setting it at 78, and see how you feel. You may be surprised at how comfortable your home feels. A programmable thermostat can raise it higher when you’re away and lower it when you’re home.
Change the Filters
Dirty air filters prevent your air conditioner from working at full efficiency. Clogs restrict airflow, and they make your air conditioner’s engine work harder. Changing the filters is an easy, inexpensive way to get the most from your air conditioner. Change them once a month or according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Seal the Cracks
Cracks and openings in your house can cause cool air to escape. That’s like throwing your money out the window. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal cracks and openings around your windows. If your windows are old and dilapidated, consider getting new, energy-efficient windows. They’re expensive, but they’ll help you save money in future years.
Get Some Shade
Shade is a natural way to keep the temperature lower. To get a natural, year-round shade, plant trees around your house. Make sure their shade falls on your air conditioning unit. This is a long-term investment, but it will pay off in lower bills. While you’re waiting for your trees to grow, use an outdoor gazebo or tent to create a shady spot in your yard, or put a cover on your deck to escape the heat. Installing a ceiling fan on your gazebo, deck, or patio will make it even cooler.
Try a Whole House Fan
A whole house fan is an affordable supplement to air conditioning. It’s fast and easy to install, and it can improve your home’s air quality while helping it stay cool. While an air conditioner uses up to 5,000 watts of energy, a whole house fan only uses 200 to 700 watts. Many people find they can reduce their air conditioning use by half with a whole house fan.
Get an Energy Audit to Determine Air Conditioning Efficiency
If you’re having trouble controlling your energy bills, you could be losing money from hidden leaks. SESCOS can perform an energy audit on your home or business. We’ll help you figure out where you’re losing energy and how to correct the problems. For more information about energy audits, contact SESCOS.