Are you dreading the warm weather and higher costs of running your A/C system that comes with it? Taking the time to summer-proof your home can save you hundreds of dollars in unnecessary energy use. By paying closer attention to your home, you can find a number of low or no cost solutions for reducing your summer energy bills.
Get A Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats are great for improving A/C efficiency and reducing costs. Homeowners can either control the temperature of their home remotely or rely on the thermostat’s ability to learn a household’s heating and cooling patterns and auto-adjust accordingly. When your home is not occupied, it’s recommended for your thermostat to run seven to ten degrees higher. Once you return home, the thermostat can change to a lower, more desired temperature. By using a smart thermostat to adjust your thermostat settings based on your routine and occupancy, you reduce the amount of work placed on your unit, and ultimately, reduce your bill each month.
Turn on Fans
Running ceiling fans can lower the temperature of your house a few degrees, especially fans on the second floor as hot air rises. Fans help to circulate cool air and absorb heat from your body using a wind chill effect. By turning on your ceiling fans, you can set your thermostat higher and still be comfortable with cool airflow. Make sure the blades are set to spin counterclockwise so that your fan will push cold air downward.
Use Curtains and Blinds
Shading your windows can help deflect heat and lower the temperature of your home. Curtains and blinds are great for lowering your summer A/C bills. By shading your windows, you can deflect heat and lower the overall temperature of your home without adjusting your thermostat. Blackout curtains are also helpful in areas with high sun exposure.
Check Sealing
Sealing around places like windows and doors can become worn over time. If you notice drafts in your home, it could be that your sealing needs to be replaced. The drafts in your home during warm summer months can cause your system to run harder and drive up your bill.
Temperatures are on the rise. Don’t wait to start saving with these home cooling solutions. Want to make sure your system is running at its best before summer? Give the experts at Canady’s a call to schedule a system check-up appointment today!