One of the most substantial operating costs of owning a home is the energy bill. With energy prices constantly increasing, finding ways to save money is understandably on the minds of many homeowners. While there isn’t one solution to reducing your energy bill, there are several tactics you can implement to help meet this goal.
Homeowners rely on their cooling systems to keep their homes comfortable year-round in Florida’s hot and humid climate. Constantly running your air conditioner strains your cooling system and makes it more expensive to cool your home.
To save money on air conditioning, consider AC repair in Citrus Park from Air Zone. To ensure you and your family are getting the most out of your air conditioner, contact Air Zone Air Conditioning & Heating today at 813-855-4191 for a free quote.
In the meantime, here are a few things you and your family can do to save money on air conditioning:
Add Insulation
A well-insulated home can save you money on air conditioning by keeping the cold air in and the hot hair out. If your home isn’t adequately insulated, you could be wasting money every time you use your air conditioner. Increase your home’s energy efficiency by ensuring it has the proper insulation.
Routine Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your air conditioner can improve the energy efficiency of your unit. Issues such as old air filters or broken parts force your air conditioner to work harder than it needs to, causing your energy bill to spike. Routine air conditioner maintenance performed annually ensures that your air conditioner runs at peak performance.
When is AC repair required? Call a professional to evaluate your air conditioner to determine whether a simple repair or total replacement is necessary. While upgrading your air conditioner can be pricey, a new energy-efficient unit will save you money in the long run.
Upgrade Your Equipment
Replacing your old air conditioner is a wise investment. An old or broken air conditioner may require more energy to cool your home, causing your energy bill to rise. While there is an upfront cost to replace your old air conditioner, you will see the savings each month on your energy bill. When upgrading your equipment, use a unit with a SEER rating of 14.5 or higher to maximize savings.
Use a Smart Thermostat
In today’s world, smart appliances dominate the market because they can provide the most energy efficiency for your home. A smart thermostat is a programmable thermostat that you can control from anywhere. It is the perfect solution for busy families who don’t want to think about temperature control every day.
A smart thermostat can learn your routine and predict when you need air conditioning without thinking about it. You can also adjust it remotely with a smartphone while out of the house.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Your thermostat settings aren’t set in stone. Adjust your thermostat to suit the weather each day. Some days, you may not need your air conditioner at all. If you and your family are going on a vacation, set your thermostat accordingly to avoid cooling an empty house.
Upgrade Your Windows
No matter how new your air conditioner is, the energy efficiency of your unit is only as good as your windows. As with insulation, your windows keep cool air in and hot air out. To save money on air conditioning this summer, consider upgrading your windows in the spring. Replacing your windows will save you money for years to come.
Use Fans for Circulation
Standing fans and ceiling fans are a great way to keep cool when the temperature is a bit too warm but not hot enough to warrant the usage of the air conditioner. Using fans in the heat is an economical way to reduce the temperature in your home by a few degrees during the summer months. Fans can make all the difference in terms of saving you money.
Limit Oven Usage
Opt for barbecuing or grilling dinner outside instead of using your oven indoors. Using a conventional indoor oven only adds to the heat trapped in your home. Grilling outdoors keeps the heat outside while providing your family with fun summer activities.
Keep the Heat Out
Many other activities contribute to the rising temperature inside your home. Using your dryer, dishwasher, and even taking a shower can raise the temperature in your home by several degrees. Aim to limit these activities to the early morning or the evening to avoid the hottest times of the day to save money on your air conditioning this summer.
Go Green
Planting trees around your home is a natural way to save money on air conditioning. The trees or bushes you plant provide a natural shade for your home, leaving it cooler in the summertime. Planting more trees is also great for the environment and can help improve the air quality in your home. Get the whole family involved by choosing which plants to put in your yard this summer.
Call the Professionals Today
If you want to save time and money this summer, ensuring your air conditioner is in tip-top shape is the best place to start. Reduce your monthly energy bill with routine maintenance for your air conditioner. Simple things like planting trees outside your home and using fans can help save you money on air conditioning. Cooling your home shouldn’t be stressful for you and your family this summer. Learn more about AC installation today by calling Air Zone Air Conditioning & Heating at 813-855-4191.