When the hot weather settles back in for another year, you likely turn to your home air conditioning system to stay comfortable. Unfortunately, using a home AC unit can increase your summertime electricity bills. To help save a bundle on your cooling bills, try implementing some of the helpful tips that we’ll discuss below.
Routine AC Maintenance
One of the absolute best ways to ensure your AC unit is operating efficiently is to get routine maintenance service. Our team of expert technicians will thoroughly inspect your system and repair any worn-out or malfunctioning components. This will set your system up for efficient operation throughout the long summer season.
Regular Filter Changes
As a homeowner, you need to ensure your AC air filter is regularly changed. You should check it every month by holding it up to a light. If you can’t see through the filter, it’s time for a replacement. You never want to continue running your AC with an overly dirty filter, as it will drastically reduce its operating efficiency.
Ductwork Sealing Service
Your metal ducting will expand and contract as it experiences changes in temperature. This constant movement will undoubtedly lead to leaks in your air ducts. These leaks can allow the cold air to escape into wall and floor crevices instead of making it to the rooms in your home.
Duct sealing service can be highly beneficial for aged ducting. This is where one of our technicians will thoroughly inspect your ducting for leaks. We’ll use a specialized serum that will adhere to the inside of your air ducts to seal up any leaks and gaps. This will ensure all the cold air your AC produces actually makes it to the rooms in your home.
Use a Smart Thermostat
A must-have for your household cooling system is a smart thermostat. This will allow you to easily program a set schedule for your AC unit, where you can optimize savings at times when you know you’ll be away from home. Furthermore, smart thermostats have learning and geofencing technology that can automatically alter your temperature settings to optimize energy savings while still leaving your home feeling comfortable.
Upgrade Your Outdated Unit
If your existing central air conditioner is over 15 years old, it’s very likely that it won’t operate anywhere near its intended efficiency rating. Aging units get less efficient over time. Upgrading to a new AC unit can be a great option. Newer units are much more energy-efficient than those made just 10 years ago. A simple upgrade could save you up to 30% on your annual cooling bills.
Complement With Ceiling Fans
Another really useful tip to help reduce your summertime energy bills is to supplement your AC unit with ceiling fans. You’ll want a ceiling fan in all the major rooms of your home. Your ceiling fans should be spinning in a counterclockwise direction so that they force air down onto you. This breeze will work to wick away sweat from your body, which will naturally cool you down. When you feel cool, you can set your thermostat at a higher temperature so that your AC unit doesn’t run as often.
Close Your Curtains
Another must-do to reduce your cooling bills is to ensure that you’re closing your curtains during the daytime hours. If you let direct sunlight penetrate through your windows, it will heat up the air inside your home. This will cause your AC unit to turn on to combat the rise in temperature. Instead, opt for closing your curtains during the sunniest hours of the day to prevent heat transfer indoors.
Seal Up Air Leaks
One other tip to implement is sealing up air leaks on the exterior walls of your home. Air leaks will typically develop over time around your doors and window frames. You’ll notice a difference in the air temperature as you run your hand around the frame. Consider using caulking, weatherstripping, or even spray foam to fill in any voids so that you can keep the hot air outside.
Expert AC Maintenance Service
Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC offers expert AC maintenance service for the Billings, MT community. We can also help with all your air conditioning installation, replacement, and cooling repair needs. Just call our office today to book your next service appointment with one of our helpful AC technicians.
Today!
