The blazing temperatures in the Dallas Fort-Worth Metroplex are unavoidable and air conditioning costs skyrocket during the warmer months. Whether you’re renting or buying, keeping your home cool while saving money on energy bills is a priority for most citizens, that is why A Star is here to help!
Here are 5 ways to Save on Summer Cooling Costs.
1. Use a Fan
Fans are a necessity to stay cool during this summer heat. Ceiling fans are the most commonly owned type of fans and come in most new homes. They supply a temporary, energy-efficient way of cooling by drawing warm air up and pushing it away.
Oscillating fans are another wonderful way to maintain airflow and keep your home cool. They work by drawing air in through the back of the unit and pushing it forward to create a draft. It is a common misconception that fans lower the temperature of a room, however, fans don’t lower the temperature at all, instead, they create a draft which makes it feel about 6 to 7 degrees cooler.
2. Close all windows and doors.
Keeping your windows and doors closed throughout the day drastically reduces the hot airflow into your home. Any time you open the door to let the dog out or fetch the mail, the warm air from outside flows into your home, reversing your AC’s effects. Garage doors also trap a tremendous amount of heat that can easily flow into the house when you open your door. So make sure you reduce the number of times you open your windows and doors throughout the day to keep the heat out and the cool air in.
3. Increase the thermostat when you’re away from your home.
Increasing your thermostat a few degrees can lower your energy bill by 10%. Raise the temperature in your home as high as you can tolerate. And while you’re away for prolonged periods of time, turn it off completely. The closer the temperature inside your home and outside is, the more money you save. Avoid lowering the temperature in your home to cool it down faster. Lowering the temperature doesn’t cool down your home any faster and will cost you more.
4. Properly maintain your cooling system
Investing in an energy-efficient unit and programmable thermostats isn’t enough. Be sure to properly maintain your AC units in these ways:
- Replace filters every 2 to 3 months.
- Get airducts and vents professionally cleaned once every 2 years.
- Check your outside unit and be sure to adhere to the unit guidelines.
5. Keep your home cool from the Inside
- Avoid using your oven: Using your oven for any length of time can raise your home’s temperature by up to 5 degrees. Instead, go outside and use your grill! There are lots of great cuisine options to cook on a grill.
- Limit the use of your Dishwasher: Dishwashers also produce heat; try handwashing your dishes and set them out to dry.
- Reduce physical exercise indoors: Exercising can heat your body up very quickly, and the heat radiates off your body making the temperature in the room warmer. Although it’s not significant, reducing the amount of physical heat in space keeps the coolness of your home.
If your air conditioner has stopped performing correctly, Call Astar Plumbing, Heating & Air for proficient air conditioning repairs at a reasonable price. When you work with Astar Plumbing, Heating & Air, our trained service technicians will sit down with you to discuss your needs and help you find the best air conditioning system for your budget.
Do I need a heating tune-up yearly?
Even if you just moved into a brand-new home or recently replaced your whole system, not only do we recommend regular maintenance, but so does your manufacturer. Typical operation causes wear and tear regardless of a unit being brand new. Over time your systems heating components become less efficient, paving the road for an unwanted repair down the road. Don’t risk your comfort, high repair bills or high energy costs call us today at 972-485-0813!
Automate your systems maintenance today!
There is an easier way to keep up with your systems maintenance year-round. Our Gold Star Membership will ensure you receive 2 visits from one of our highly skilled technicians. Most of our members have us out once before the winter and once before the summer, this ensures they stay comfortable when it matters most! Sign up with us today and receive various additional perks (now includes a whole home plumbing inspection!)