As the summer heat becomes unbearable, more and more people are relying on air conditioning to keep their homes cool. However, this increased usage of AC units leads to a spike in electricity bills, which can be a significant financial burden. Fortunately, there are many AC and cooling tips that can help you lower your electricity consumption and keep your home cool in 2023. They include the following:
Upgrade to a More Energy-Efficient AC Unit
One of the easiest ways to lower your electricity consumption is by upgrading to a more energy-efficient AC unit. While this may require a significant investment, the long-term savings on your electricity bills will make it worth it. Look for AC units that meet strict energy efficiency guidelines.
Set Your Thermostat to the Optimal Temperature
Setting your thermostat to the optimal temperature is another way to lower your electricity consumption. The optimal temperature for your home during the summer is about 78 degrees Fahrenheit (26 degrees Celsius). Every degree below this temperature can increase your energy consumption.
Use Fans to Your Advantage
Using fans to your advantage is another way to lower your electricity consumption. Ceiling fans, in particular, can help circulate cool air throughout your home, reducing the workload on your AC unit. Be sure to adjust the direction of your ceiling fan so that it rotates counterclockwise during the summer, which will push cool air downwards.
Keep Your AC Unit Clean and Maintained
Keeping your AC unit clean and maintained is crucial to its efficiency and longevity. Be sure to clean or replace the air filter every one to three months, depending on usage. Dirty air filters can restrict airflow and reduce the efficiency of your AC unit, leading to higher electricity consumption. Also, schedule regular maintenance checks with a professional HVAC technician to ensure that your AC unit is operating at peak efficiency.
Use Shades, Drapes, and Blinds to Block Out Sunlight
Using shades, drapes, and blinds to block out sunlight is an effective way to reduce the heat gain in your home. Sunlight can increase the temperature in your home by up to 10 degrees, which can cause your AC unit to work harder and consume more electricity. Be sure to close your shades, drapes, and blinds during the hottest parts of the day to keep your home cool and reduce your electricity consumption.
Use Heat-Generating Appliances at Night
Using heat-generating appliances at night is another way to lower your electricity consumption. Appliances such as ovens, dryers, and dishwashers generate heat, which can increase the temperature in your home and cause your AC unit to work harder. By using these appliances at night, when the temperature is generally cooler, you can reduce the workload on your AC unit and lower your electricity consumption.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
Using a programmable thermostat is another way to lower your electricity consumption. Programmable thermostats allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day, which can help you conserve energy when you’re not at home. For example, you can set your thermostat to a higher temperature when you’re at work or on vacation and then lower it to a comfortable temperature when you return home.
Conclusion
While some of our tips may require an initial investment, the long-term savings on your electricity bills will make them worth it. Remember to upgrade to a more energy-efficient AC unit, set your thermostat to the optimal temperature, use fans to your advantage, keep your AC unit clean and maintained, use shades, drapes, and blinds to block out sunlight, use heat-generating appliances at night, and use a programmable thermostat. Stay cool and save money this summer!
For air conditioner installation in Ajax, trust Climate Experts. We use continuing education, training, and the latest technologies available to ensure our workmanship keeps up with all the latest innovations. We sell on Professionalism, Integrity, and AAA Workmanship. Call us today!
