On a muggy summer day, air conditioning in Crystal Lake, IL is invaluable for keeping your home at a comfortable temperature. However, a cool, refreshing home can come with an expensive power bill thanks to the additional energy required to run your AC. It’s not uncommon for homeowners to run their AC systems at night and during the day to keep their homes comfortable.
Fortunately, there are simple changes you can make to save money on your cooling costs even during the most severe heat wave. Check out these easy ways to save money on your AC and lower your utility bills.
1. Close Your Curtains and Blinds
Before you leave your home or when you leave a room, take a few moments to close your curtains and blinds, especially during the warmest part of the day.
This prevents sunlight from entering your home and warming the room, causing your AC to have to run longer to maintain a comfortable temperature.
2. Use Your Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are an underutilized tool that can make a warmer temperature setting on your thermostat feel more comfortable. Check that the fan is running in a counterclockwise direction to move cool air downwards.
3. Bump Your Thermostat Up a Few Degrees
To save the most money, set your thermostat at a temp that’s close to the outside temperature. A temperature setting of 78 is a great option for many homeowners. If this feels too warm for you, even turning your thermostat up a few degrees can result in significant savings.
Or, increase your thermostat’s temperature when you don’t need a cooler home, like when you’re away or sleeping. A programmable thermostat can assist you with effortlessly adjusting your temperature so that you’re lowering your energy use while you’re gone.
4. Postpone Activities That Release Heat into Your Home
While you likely can’t skip washing clothes or cooking entirely, it’s smart to change the time that you complete these activities. Your home appliances release heat, causing the temperature in your home to increase and your AC to have to work harder.
Avoid running your washing machine, dryer, dishwasher, or oven during the hot afternoon hours. Instead, use them during the cooler early morning or evening hours.
5. Keep Your AC System Maintained
An AC system that’s filled with dirt and debris or using a dirty filter will have to work harder to lower your home’s temperature. Keeping your system cleaned, maintained, and outfitted with a fresh filter is an effective way to lower your cooling bills and extend your AC’ system’s lifespan.
How a Professional AC Service Can Help You Save Money
Regular AC service from an experienced company helps your AC remain in top-notch condition. By scheduling regular servicing for your AC, you keep your unit clean and running efficiently. You can also detect small issues before they turn into costly repairs.
Contact Althoff Industries, Inc. today to schedule an appointment with our professionals. Chicago’s Choice Since 1961. Hand It Off to Althoff!