It gets pretty hot during the summer, and homes start to get a bit uncomfortable because of it. The temperature rises and people have to push their air conditioners, increasing the amount they owe on their electricity bills. Although they say ‘money makes the world go round,’ we think cutting your electricity bill benefits you most. How do we do this? Simple: We use a few simple tricks to keep our Utah air conditioning system from using the energy it doesn’t need to use.
Replace Out-Dated Systems
New models of air conditioning systems are constantly coming out, more efficient and easier on the use of energy. If your system is near 10 years or older, then it’s time to switch out for one that works better.
Keep Your System Cool
It sounds weird at first, but the shading and keeping your air conditioner in a cool spot will help it keep up with the constant demand for cool air. Putting it near trees or having a constant shade from the sun will improve its output. If there aren’t any nearby trees, then plant a few shrubs around them.
Have a Programmable Thermostat
Automatic thermostats aren’t always the best idea. Upgrading to a programmable thermostat will allow you to set your system to a specific temperature that will stay the same throughout the day. A good temperature to keep it at is 78 degrees or so.
Tune-Up Your System
Having a professional check out your system and do a yearly Utah ac tune-up will help you avoid damages. Some flaws may be nearly invisible if not checked by a trained eye. By doing this, you can avoid expensive repairs for damaged parts of the system.
Keep Heat Away from the Thermostat
Thermostats, automatic and programmable, have the possibility of being fooled by nearby heat sources. Lamps and other sources of heat can trick thermostats into working harder than needed because of the false rise in temperature.
Routinely Replace the Air Filter
Keeping the air filter efficient will help the system do its best without using more energy. By replacing the air filter monthly, clean air flows freely through the system and effectively heats or cools the house air.
Make Sure Your Home is Weatherproof
To fight off the summer heat, home walls, windowsills, and doorways are sealed to keep overly warm air from seeping into the house, as well as to keep cool air from seeping out. Make sure these seals aren’t leaking and repair these leaks with weatherproof seals or caulk.
Reverse Ceiling Fans
By making your ceiling fans spin counter-clockwise, you allow them to force cool air down from the ceiling and around the room. This will ease the load on the air conditioning system and keep your rooms cooler.
Cook Outside When Possible
When it comes to cooking, you heat a meal using the stove or oven. When you do this, the stove or the oven adds heat to the home, making the AC system work harder to keep up. Avoid this by either serving cool dishes or cooking on an outdoor grill.
Sign-Up For an Energy-Monitoring Program
The bulk of local power providers offers people an option to install a system that monitors energy use in their AC system. If you allow them to, then they will install a monitor that will keep track of your system’s energy use, allowing the improvement of its efficiency.
These ten, simple tips will help you save money on your electricity bill and improve the effectiveness of your air conditioning system. By using these steps, you’ll bring out the best in your Utah AC system and take the heat off of your wallet, providing a better summer.
