Determining how to save on cooling costs this summer is on every Cedarburg-area homeowner’s mind. After all, when summer reaches its peak, your air conditioner is running almost constantly. The result? Soaring energy bills. Fortunately, with a little knowledge and some small adjustments, you can keep costs lower. Bloch Heating & Air Conditioning offers tips to help you save on cooling costs without sacrificing comfort below. Call us with your cooling questions, as well as for AC service, at 262-377-7072.
What Causes Your Energy Bills to Spike in Summer
Of course, the more you run your air conditioner, the more energy it uses. As outdoor temperatures climb and climb, your AC has to work harder and harder. High humidity levels also complicate matters, making your home feel even warmer and tempting you to lower your thermostat even more. Combine this with an air conditioner that might need service and possible air leaks, and your bill can start to creep up.
How to Save on Cooling Costs – Our Tips
Adjust Your Thermostat Settings
The best thing you can do to help limit energy usage is to set your thermostat to a higher temperature, especially when you’re away from home or sleeping. You may be surprised to find that you don’t even notice an extra degree or two. Smart or programmable thermostat settings can also help you. Once you set a program that works for your family, you won’t have to overthink your temperature each day. Also, try to avoid drastic temperature changes if possible. This can put extra strain on your AC (and energy bills).
Replace Your Air Filter Regularly
Clogged or dirty air filters make it harder for your AC to cool things down—and increase your energy consumption. Check those filters monthly during the peak cooling season and replace them as needed. In general, filters should be replaced every one to three months.
Improve Your Home’s Airflow
Keeping open airflow throughout your home is another easy way you can boost cooling efficiency. First, ensure your vents and registers are open and unobstructed. Check your ceiling fan directions and switch them to counter-clockwise to bring cool air toward you.
Schedule Air Conditioner Maintenance
If it’s been a year or more since you’ve scheduled professional AC maintenance, now’s the time. During this simple service, a Bloch HVAC professional will inspect your entire unit and all of its components. They’ll also check refrigerant levels and make sure the unit properly calibrates with the thermostat. Any worn parts or small repairs are made on the spot to ensure your unit runs as efficiently as possible. This service also prevents larger surprise repairs when you’re least prepared.
Save Money and Increase Comfort With Bloch Heating & Air Conditioning
Learning how to save on cooling costs can help you lower energy bills without sacrificing the cool, comfortable home you’re used to. Simply making a few adjustments and keeping up with service is all it takes. To schedule AC maintenance, or for more information on your unit’s efficiency, call the Bryant® pros at Bloch Heating: 262-377-7072. You can also contact us online.
FAQS
How Long Do Air Conditioners Typically Last?
The answer depends on a few different factors. Those include how well you have it maintained and whether it breaks down often. But in general, you can expect your system to last about 15 to 20 years.
Is Maintenance Really That Important?
Yes! Routine maintenance is like a doctor’s appointment for your AC—it keeps everything working as it should. Not only will our techs improve its energy efficiency, but they’ll also catch and fix minor problems that could one day cause a costly breakdown.
Does My Air Conditioner Help With High Humidity?
It does. However, the best way to reduce moisture levels is to use a whole-home dehumidifier. It removes excess moisture from your air, helping get rid of that muggy feeling—and contaminants like mold that thrive in it. Plus, the lower the humidity, the cooler you’ll feel, meaning a dehumidifier can also improve your comfort even without the AC on.
