The costs of electricity are usually at their highest during the summer.
Understandably, as temperatures soar, the normal reaction is to keep the home cool. However, without using the correct techniques, you can quickly run up a bill that hurts to settle.
An air conditioner is a must-have especially if you live in a warm climate. But you must be crafty; summer thermostat settings can save you a tidy sum of money.
Here are some tips and tricks to help you save on your HVAC bill.
1. Replace Your Old Air Conditioning Unit
If your AC unit does not have an Energy Star rating, you should consider replacing it with a newer, efficient model.
While you might be concerned about the upfront costs, it is important that you look at the bigger picture. An efficient unit can help you save hundreds of dollars every year in energy costs.
2. Invest In Programmable Thermostats
To make your HVAC system even more effective, install a programmable thermostat.
This device allows you to have different temperature settings relative to the time of day. Once you program your instructions, the thermostat adjusts the temperatures autonomously.
For example, you can program it to regulate the temperatures into the 80’s when no one is at home, thus no need for cooling. Then have it lower the temperature about 30 minutes before you return from work so you find a cool home.
Such an automated system helps ensure that your HVAC machine is not working when it doesn’t need to, thus saving costs.
3. Setting Your Manual Thermostat
If you do not have a programmable thermostat yet, you can still use the one you have to your advantage. To do this, try and set your thermostat’s temperature to the highest possible degree you can stand.
The closer the thermostat’s temperature is to the temperature outside, the less your AC has to work, thus lowering your energy bill.
Understandably, you might prefer cooler temperatures ranging around the ’60s, but adjusting to the less cool temperatures at around 78 degrees is what will allow you to enjoy savings. To adjust, take it one day at a time.
Instead of jumping straight to 78 degrees, start at 70 degrees and work your way up one degree at a time. Increase the temperature by one degree each day.
4. Consider Other Ways to Cool
There are a few other methods of cooling you can utilize instead of the air conditioner. For example, a ceiling fan can make a room up to four degrees cooler.
Thus, if you combine it with a thermostat set at a higher degree, you should enjoy a cool environment without having to crank up the AC.
During the day, consider using blinds or blackout curtains that block out the sun’s rays. At night, if possible, open the windows to allow in the cooler air.
Utilizing Summer Thermostat Settings
We love summer. However, the same sun that we crave can quickly skyrocket our energy bills if we are not efficient in how we manage our home-cooling appliances.
Being knowledgeable about summer thermostat settings, therefore, will go a long way in ensuring you do not get served with a stress-inducing bill.
Looking to make your home more energy efficient?
Farnen and Dermer have been providing Owings Mills residents with home improvement products and services for over a hundred years.
Our products are designed to enhance your comfort while lowering your bills. Contact us today to learn more.