15 Ways to Reduce Air Conditioning Costs

Are you burdened by skyrocketing utility expenses this summer? To cut AC costs without losing comfort, you should adopt energy-saving routines, implement low-cost changes and make strategic long-term investments. Here are 15 proven techniques to consider.

Adopt Good Energy Habits

Cutting AC costs may be easier than you think. Here are some absolutely free ways to ease your monthly electricity bills:

1. Keep curtains and blinds closed: Around 76 percent of the sunlight that streams onto standard double-pane windows goes into the building as heat. By blocking out the sun by pulling insulating curtains and blinds over your south- and west-facing windows, you lessen solar heat gain in the afternoon and reduce the need for air conditioning.

2. Turn up the temperature: You can save up to three percent on your cooling costs for each degree you raise the temperature. Try cranking up the temperature on your thermostat a bit higher than usual and running a fan to make up the difference.

3. Turn off the lights when not in use: Lights, especially incandescent bulbs, make a lot of heat. Turning them off when you walk out of the area lowers the interior heat gain your AC must combat.

4. Use appliances strategically: Wait to use heat-generating appliances like the oven, dryer and dishwasher until the cooler part of the day. This strategy relieves some of your AC’s workload during the hot afternoon, bringing down your bill and improving home comfort.

5. Run kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans: Eliminate heat and humidity while cooking and showering to diminish the workload on your air conditioning.

Invest in Low-Cost Upgrades

If you’re willing to invest a few dollars, you can put an even larger dent in your air conditioning expenses. Here are some affordable improvements to consider:

6. Set up a programmable thermostat: If you still have an older thermostat, look into upgrading. A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature based on your daily schedule. You can cut AC expenditures by up to 10 percent by dialing the temperature back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours per day. Thanks to automatic recovery periods, you can enjoy these savings without aggravation or discomfort.

7. Schedule regular maintenance: Your AC needs scheduled checkups to make sure it runs correctly and efficiently. Maintenance visits every spring also give technicians a chance to identify and fix little issues before they grow into expensive repairs. This small, predictable expense provides a significant return on investment through improved efficiency and can lengthen the unit’s life.

8. Seal leaks: In lots of homes, leaky windows and doors are the culprit behind around 25 percent of its cooling energy use. Seal those irritating leaks with caulk and weatherstripping.

9. Use reflective window film: Window film reflects the sun’s rays to the outside, reducing solar heat gain. This affordable upgrade is an ideal way to increase your older windows’ efficiency without updating them.

10. Upgrade to LED lights: LEDs generate almost no heat and use far less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. These attributes help keep your home cooler and reduce lighting costs as well.

Consider Long-Term Home Investments

If you’re looking to make more substantial modifications, explore the following investments to cut cooling costs in the long run:

11. Insulate the attic: Hot air can leak through the ceiling if your attic has not been adequately insulated. Peek inside the attic, and if you don’t see a thick, even layer of insulation, consider adding more. Depending on what form of insulation you select, you might need to hire a professional for the job.

12. Plant trees for natural shade: Planting leafy trees on the south and west sides of your house blocks sunlight and creates a cool microclimate around your home, naturally cutting down on your cooling requirements.

13. Replace your windows: Old, single-pane windows let in a large amount of heat, requiring your AC to work harder. Installing double- or triple-pane windows with advanced glazing features increases your home’s air-tightness and keeps the interior cooler.

14. Upgrade your AC system: Running an aging air conditioner hurts your wallet more than you might think. Upgrading from a decade-old 10 SEER model to a contemporary 15 SEER unit can save you 33 percent on your air conditioning costs. The savings opportunities of this purchase is even higher if you’re prepared to invest more up front.

15. Install solar panels: Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity to run your cooling system and other electric devices. The ongoing savings, coupled with tax incentives available through 2035, make this a valuable investment.

Save More on Your AC in the U.S. With Help From Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we go above and beyond the expected to provide exceptional HVAC services that help reduce air conditioning costs in the long run. Because of our top-quality products, Expert knowledge, and attention to detail, we feel very comfortable backing our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. To learn more about how we can help lower your summer air conditioning costs, please reach out to the Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Schedule your appointment by calling 866-397-3787 today!

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