Heating and cooling can account for up to half of a home’s energy use, so it’s important to take steps to save as much as possible on these costs. In this article, we will provide six tips that will help you reduce your heating and cooling expenses. Implementing even a few of these money saving hacks can help you save big on your air conditioning bill!
#1 Get an energy audit
Running an air conditioner can get expensive, especially during the summer months. Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to help cut costs.
One of the best ways to save money on your air conditioner is to have an energy audit performed. An energy audit will assess how your home is using energy and identify areas where you could be more efficient.
As a result, you may be able to make some simple changes that could lead to big savings. In addition, an energy audit can also help you determine if it’s time to upgrade to a more efficient model.
If your air conditioner is more than 10 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Newer models are much more efficient than older ones, so you could see a significant decrease in your energy bills.
#2 Upgrade Your Thermostat
If you’re looking for ways to save money on your air conditioning bill, one of the best things you can do is upgrade your thermostat. Smart thermostats can save you money by automatically adjusting the temperature to match your schedule and preferences.
For example, if you know you’ll be out of the house all day, you can set the temperature a few degrees higher than usual. This way, you won’t have to waste energy cooling an empty house.
Likewise, if you have a day off from work, you can take advantage of lower energy rates by setting the temperature a bit higher during daytime hours. Smart thermostats can also learn your preferences over time and make adjustments accordingly.
#3 Consider Installing a Heat Pump
Heat pumps work by moving heat from one place to another and can be used for both heating and cooling. In the summer, a heat pump can act as an air conditioner, moving heat from your home into the outside air.
During the winter, a heat pump can reverse this process, drawing heat from the outside air and bringing it into your home. Because heat pumps do not generate new heat, they are much more efficient than traditional furnace-and-air-conditioner systems. As a result, they can help you save money on your energy bills throughout the year.
#4 Use Ceiling Fans To Improve Circulation
Ceiling fans can help circulate air and make a room feel cooler, meaning you can set your AC to a higher temperature and still be comfortable. In fact, every degree you raise your AC’s temperature can save you up to 4% on your energy bill.
Furthermore, they can help preserve heat in your home during the winter by reversing to clockwise rotation and down-drafting heat to the areas of your home that are occupied. So, if you’re looking for ways to cut costs, using ceiling fans in conjunction with your air conditioner or heater is a great place to start.
#5 Seal Your Home
Running the AC or furnace can quickly drive up home energy costs, especially if your home is not well-sealed. To help prevent this year-round, take the following steps:
- Check for gaps and cracks around doors and windows and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping.
- Add thick curtains or blinds to windows to block out the sun’s heat
- Keep your filters clean so that it doesn’t have to work harder than necessary to regulate the temperature of your home
If you’re unsure of where your home’s vulnerabilities are, consider touching base with a professional.
#6 Service Your Air Conditioning System
Another great way to save money on your air conditioner is to make sure that it is properly maintained. Just like any other appliance, an air conditioner needs regular maintenance to function properly.
On your own, be sure to change the filter regularly. From there, ensure that the is serviced by a professional at least once a year.
Ellis AC: Stay Tuned For More Money Air Conditioning Money Saving Hacks
By following these tips, you can cut down on your heating and cooling costs significantly! And if you have any questions or are in need of support, Ellis Air Conditioning & Heating is here to help.
We have been in business for over 40 years and have the experience necessary to handle any heating or cooling need that you may have. Contact us today for a quote or with any questions you may have.