San Antonio summers easily reach over 100 degrees, but trying to find that perfect balance of comfort and cost might make you sweat even more. You want to stay comfortable without the sky-high electric bill and these six tips will help you cut cooling costs.
1. Schedule Annual Maintenance
An air conditioning unit needs yearly maintenance for peak performance. If this necessary maintenance is neglected, you will likely witness a decline in performance while energy use increases. During a tune-up, your HVAC technician will thoroughly clean the system, ensure proper refrigerant levels, perform preventative maintenance, and take other steps to optimize energy efficiency and prevent costly breakdowns.
2. Replace Filters
Replacing the filter is one of the easiest and most effective methods of conserving energy and saving money on your HVAC usage. Over time, dust and debris clog the filter, pushing your system to work harder for the same amount of cool air. The Department of Energy recommends that you change the filter every month or two for optimal cooling.
3. Upgrade Thermostat
A smart thermostat is easy to install and can be controlled with an app on your phone, making it easy to adjust the temperature, even when you’re away from home. Best of all, smart thermostats come in a range of prices, making them affordable for any budget. Look here to find out more about the pros and cons of smart thermostats.
4. Use Ceiling Fans
The Department of Energy recommends the use of ceiling fans because they effectively circulate the air in a room to create a draft. In conjunction with air conditioning, a ceiling fan will allow you to increase the thermostat setting 4°F without reducing comfort. Make sure your ceiling fans are turning counterclockwise for warmer months and don’t leave fans running in empty rooms.
5. Close the Shades
With sunshine flooding through your home’s windows, the air conditioner has to work harder to keep up. Keeping the shades or blinds drawn on sun-facing windows will not only keep your home cooler, but it will also help cut your monthly energy cost. Some window treatments work better than others, like reflective shades, blackout drapes, and honeycomb blinds.
6. Install Weather Sealing
Your goal is to keep cool air in and keep the hot air out, so take the time to inspect your home for leaks. Caulking is an easy DIY job that takes just a couple of hours, costs less than $30, and can cut your energy use up to 10%. For the most thorough assessment, consider scheduling a professional energy audit with technicians that use infrared heat mapping to pinpoint your home’s thermal weak spots.
Enjoy Your Summer!
No matter how hot it gets, we’re here to help keep you and your family cool and comfortable. Beat the heat this summer without breaking the bank. Contact us to schedule an HVAC inspection and maintenance call. North East Air Conditioning, Heating, & Plumbing proudly serves San Antonio and surrounding areas.
Photo by Allef Vinicius on Unsplash
