Home Improvement Tips to Reduce Your Air Conditioning Bills
Summer is coming, and it’s time to turn on the AC and enjoy the fresh air. Here are a few home improvement tips to keep the system running efficiently and reduce your AC bills.
- Upgrade To A Smart Thermostat
A thermostat plays an essential role in watching and regulating the temperature in your house when your AC turns on. But most typical units can only force a powerful cooldown to keep the inside comfortable, which can be really expensive. With a smart or programmable unit, you can set the exact dates and times when it should monitor the temperature. More importantly, it links to a multi-stage device with innovative energy-efficiency controls, thus regulating the temperature more efficiently.
- Install a New Air Conditioner
If you have a tight budget, choose for a newer model with the highest energy-efficiency rating, or a unit that is qualified for the Energy Star. Basically, these devices might consume approximately 8 per cent less energy than other models. As a result, you can save a lot of money on utilities and reduce your carbon footprint with a new air conditioning installation. Keep in mind that it is still essential to keep regular cleanup and maintenance.
- Maintain Your AC Systems Frequently
If you often jack up your air conditioner to find out why it doesn’t run correctly, then there might be some problems with the air filter. A dirty unit can make the whole system work harder for the same amount of cold air flow as usual. As a result, your electricity bills might rocket. By replacing or cleaning your air filter regularly, it is possible to reduce energy consumption by nearly 15 per cent. Also, make sure to check the central air to ensure that the condenser coils and evaporator are clear of debris and dirt, as well as floor registers are still clean.
- Set Up Solar Screens
Solar screens can stop nearly 70 per cent of outside heat coming into your house. By installing these units, your home can get cooler, thus reducing the need for using the AC during the hot days. Another great option is window films. However, you can only use them when the windows are completely closed.
- Set Up a Ceiling Fan
This small unit can create a wind-chilling effect to make your house feel cooler instantly. If you are also turning on an AC system, the fan will disperse the cold air flow more efficiently. Also, it allows homeowners to raise the temperature up to four degrees without perceivable change.
- Plant Trees Around Your House
During the summer, trees can naturally cool the surrounding environment by providing shade. This reduces the need to use the air conditioner to cool the inside.
Keep in mind that the success of this task will heavily depend on two things:
- The planting of trees with large deciduous shades, which are leafy and full during the summer, but lose all leaves in fall and winter.
- The right placement: It is advisable to plant the trees near your house so that they can help to block the sunlight and heat.