No Cost Ways to Save on Your Air Conditioning This Summer

As hot, summer temperatures rise, so will the cost of cooling your home this summer. The cost of electricity is expected to go up, causing many to look for ways to cut back on expenses.

Below is a list of “no cost” ways to help you reduce your air conditioning costs this summer.

• Check for air leaks along exterior walls, seal as necessary
• Check your window frames for air leaks, seal as necessary
• Close your fireplace damper when not is use
• Close the glass door of your fireplace when not in use
• Keep windows/doors closed when A/C is on
• Search for air leaks in entire home
• Delay using heat producing appliances (i.e. oven) until evening
• Clean the air registers periodically
• Keep furniture and rugs away from vents
• Seasonally adjust your drapes or blinds – using drapes or blinds to block out summer sun
• Seasonally change ceiling fan direction
• Keep outdoor air conditioning unit free from grass and weeds
• Shade location of outdoor air conditioning unit
• Keep bedroom doors open at night
• Wear light clothing
• Utilize your programmable thermostat to adjust temperatures while at home and away
• Sleep under fewer blankets
• Use less lights and turn off lights during hottest part of the day
• Check for drafts under doors
• Monitor heating and cooling costs for savings
• Check out Energy Conservation web sites for additional ideas

Below are some “low to moderate cost” ways to make a significant difference in your utility bills:

• Change or clean your air conditioning filter on a regular basis. A dirty filter lowers the efficiency of your heating/cooling system and increases your heating and cooling costs.
• Utilize your programmable thermostat correctly. If you don't have a programmable thermostat consider having one installed. According to Energy Star through proper use of pre-programmed settings, a programmable thermostat can save you up to $180 every year in energy costs.
• Have regular maintenance performed on your air conditioning system. A tune-up ensures that your system is running efficiently and safely, while saving you money and giving you peace of mind! Air conditioners at peak efficiency will use up to 20% less electricity and last years longer. In most cases, the savings you get in lower heating and cooling costs more than makes up for the cost of the tune-up.

Have questions? Please contact us on our Ask An Expert page.

Sources:

• http://www.savingsgrid.com/
  
• www.energystar.gov