It doesn’t seem to ever cool off here in Georgetown. Many homeowners in Texas use their air conditioning 100% of the year! All that cold air can result in sky-high energy bills. Luckily, there are many ways you can money on your air conditioning bills while staying comfortable. Here are some ways you can keep cool without breaking the bank.
1. Use those ceiling fans
Ceiling fans substantially reduce the need for air conditioning. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that if you use a ceiling fan in conjunction with an air conditioning system, you can raise the thermostat by about 4F with no reduction in comfort. Since ceiling fans use much less energy than your air conditioner, this is a worthwhile change to make in your habits!
2. Test out higher thermostat settings
One surefire way to reduce your air conditioning bills is to…well, use your air conditioning less. Try setting the thermostat to just one degree higher than usual. Even that small change will make a significant impact on your energy usage over the course of a month. If you don’t already have a programmable thermostat, it may be time to invest in one. A modern thermostat will allow you to schedule a higher temperature setting when you’re away from home.
3. Make sure your air conditioner is operating smoothly
Just like your car, your air conditioner requires regular maintenance to ensure proper operation. Without annual service, your air conditioner will have to work harder to keep your family comfortable. The result? Your energy bills start to rise. You can schedule AC maintenance anytime throughout the year, but the best time is during the spring. DTC Air Conditioning & Heating offers a Priority Service Club Membership program, so you don’t have to remember every year to schedule or find a number to call.
You might also consider upgrading your air conditioning system. If your AC is over 12 years old, you could see dramatic energy bill savings by purchasing a new unit, since energy efficiency has increased tremendously over the last few years. There are lucrative incentives for homeowners that choose energy-efficient air conditioning systems.
3. Keep windows shaded
A view of the outdoors can make your home feel more open and airy. However, it can also drive up your energy bills. Windows that don’t have blinds or shades allow heat to radiate inside your home. Close off any blinds or curtains to use the least amount of energy.
4. Check for weather stripping
During the winter, check around your windows and doors for any drafts. Sealing up any small openings can drastically improve your energy bills. Also, this is an easy do-it-yourself project. Just head to any home improvement store, and you’ll find everything you need for this quick fix.
Saving on energy is not only good for your wallet, but it’s also good for the planet, too. Since the energy used for air conditioning makes up nearly half of all Texans’ energy bills, it makes sense to investigate ways to save. If you sense your AC is eating up way too much energy, call the experts at DTC. Our NATE-certified professionals can visit your home today and assess your system for improvements. Just call: 512-887-5091 to schedule your consultation.