How Can You Save on Cooling Costs This Summer?

Keeping your home cool during the summer months can be costly, with Americans spending nearly $11 billion each year on air conditioning. Additionally, air conditioners release approximately 100 million tons of carbon dioxide annually. The good news? There are plenty of ways to stay cool while saving money and reducing your environmental impact. Here are some actionable tips to help you cut cooling costs this summer.

1. Reduce Body Heat

One of the simplest ways to stay cool is by focusing on your body temperature. Here are a few ideas to reduce body heat:

• Eat Light: Choose cool meals like salads and sandwiches instead of using the oven or stovetop, which generate heat in your home.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to regulate your body temperature.
• Seek Cooler Spaces: Spend time in naturally cooler parts of your home, like the basement, or plan outings to air-conditioned places like libraries or movie theaters.

2. Optimize Airflow

Improving airflow inside your home can help you feel cooler without cranking up the air conditioning. Try these tips:

• Use Fans: Ceiling and portable fans are effective at circulating air. Remember, fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when you leave.
• Open Windows Strategically: Take advantage of cooler evenings by opening windows to let in fresh air. Close them during the day to keep heat out.
• Use Exhaust Fans: Run exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom to remove heat and humidity while cooking or showering.

3. Upgrade Your Lighting

If you’re still using incandescent light bulbs, now is the time to switch to energy-efficient LEDs. Incandescent bulbs produce a significant amount of heat, whereas LEDs remain cool to the touch and use far less energy. Start by replacing bulbs in the rooms where you spend the most time for the greatest impact.

4. Optimize Your A/C Usage

Your air conditioner doesn’t have to run at full blast all day to keep you comfortable. Here are a few ways to use your system more efficiently:

• Set the Thermostat Wisely: Keep your thermostat set to the highest comfortable temperature. The Department of Energy recommends 78°F when you’re home and higher when you’re away.
• Use a Programmable Thermostat: Set schedules to ensure your A/C isn’t cooling an empty house.
• Close Curtains and Blinds: Block out direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day to reduce heat gain.

5. Maintain Your Air Conditioner

Proper maintenance ensures your air conditioning system operates efficiently and lasts longer. Include these tasks in your routine:

• Clean or Replace Filters: Dirty filters reduce airflow and make your system work harder.
• Inspect the Outdoor Unit: Remove debris and ensure the condenser coils are clean for optimal performance.
• Schedule Professional Maintenance: An annual tune-up from a licensed HVAC technician can identify issues before they turn into costly repairs.

6. Invest in Long-Term Solutions

If you’re looking for more permanent ways to reduce cooling costs, consider these upgrades:

• Seal Air Leaks: Inspect windows, doors, and ducts for gaps and seal them to prevent cool air from escaping.
• Install Insulation: Proper insulation keeps cool air in during summer and warm air in during winter, reducing energy usage year-round.
• Upgrade Your HVAC System: If your air conditioner is over 10 years old, consider replacing it with a high-efficiency model.

Call ABC Plumbing for Expert Cooling Solutions

Ready to enjoy a cooler, more cost-effective summer? The cooling specialists at ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling, and Electric are here to help. Whether you need a system tune-up, repair, or a brand-new installation, we’ve got you covered. Scroll down to find the location closest to you and give us a call today!

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