Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but it can also be a time when your air conditioning unit is working overtime. It's just as hot outside as it is inside, which makes you want to turn on the air conditioner. While, yes, this could help give you a little comfort, it can also bring a hefty price tag with it. When preparing for these bills each year, there are a couple of things you may want to consider.
We're all looking for ways to keep our homes cool in the summer and for many Floridians, this is achieved with an air conditioning unit. Many homeowners despise their energy bills in the summer. Just like the triple-digit temperature outside, the bill can easily be three digits long. While many of us prepare for these bills as they tend to be expected given St. Petersburg heat, there's always a desire to save.
However, what many don't realize is that you don't have to have central air to have AC you can still save money by keeping your home cooler. Although it's a common misconception that cool air can only be produced by a central AC unit, there are several other options for keeping your home at a reasonable temperature. Here are some tips on how to keep your home cool without breaking the bank.
Tips To Make Your Home Cool This Summer
Cooling Trends
An electric ceiling fan consumes less energy than a 100-watt incandescent light bulb, but it can make a room feel up to eight degrees cooler. The blades should be turned in the opposite direction of the wind in the summer, pushing the air downward to create a refreshing breeze. In the winter, reverse the fan's direction so that it draws air up.
Box fans only work if someone is in the room to enjoy them, so don't run them in empty rooms.
Closing windows and drawing curtains can reduce cooling costs by 30%. If the evening temperature is below 77°F, open the windows to circulate warm air.
If there isn't enough roof overhang to shield windows from direct sunlight, awnings over the west- and south-facing windows not only block solar heat but also protect furnishings from UV damage.
Lights, computers, and televisions are all sources of thermal energy. If you turn them off when they are not in use, you will save twice as much money on your electricity bill.
Close the cooling vents in rooms that are rarely used, such as basements or guest suites.
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Thermostat
An air conditioning unit set at 70°F will cost twice as much to operate as one set at 78°F, according to the Energy Star program. Even though it may seem counterintuitive, raising the thermostat by 2 degrees above its normal setting can be beneficial. You won't notice a difference in how you feel, but you will notice a difference in your bill.
Most people find temperatures between 74°F and 78°F to be comfortable. When planning to be away from home for several hours, set the thermostat to 80°F and lower it when you get back home again. Do not turn off the air conditioner, as it is less efficient to cool the house down after it has been set at a higher temperature than to leave it turned on.
An automated, programmable thermostat takes care of these responsibilities and pays for itself in energy savings in a short period of time.
The air conditioner filter should be cleaned or replaced once a month. Filters that are clogged or dirty restrict airflow and make a unit work much harder. A clean filter can save you up to ten percent on your utility bill.
Think Long-Term
Landscape design can help to keep your home cool. Planting deciduous trees around the east and west sides of your home, such as Maple, Oak, and Aspen, allows breezes to travel underneath while keeping the light away from your windows. If they grow to a sufficient height, they can also provide shade for the roof. During the winter months, when the trees are bare of leaves, the sun will assist you in heating your home.
Using low-emissivity film on older, less energy-efficient windows can assist to keep the heat out while also keeping the heat in.
On the hottest summer days, the temperature in an attic can exceed 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Consider installing a thermostat-controlled attic fan to help ventilate your home and keep it cooler overall.
Close the Blinds
When it's sunny outside, keeping the blinds drawn can assist to keep the sun's ultraviolet radiation from entering your home and damaging your furnishings. As a result, you'll notice that your home is noticeably cooler. If you still want natural light, alternate when you open the blinds. If you open them first thing in the morning, it will be more effective. By the afternoon, however, you'll want to bring them to a conclusion.
Simply keeping your blinds, shades, and drapes closed throughout the day can help you save money on your utility bills without compromising on your comfort. They can serve as an additional layer of insulation, keeping the heat out and the air conditioning in.
Keep Your Air Conditioning Unit Maintained
Trying to avoid a complete breakdown during the height of summer isn't the best option. Not only may it be a bit pricey, but it could also put the health of your family in danger. It is advised that you get your HVAC system professionally examined before the start of each season or at least twice a year, to ensure that it is operating at peak efficiency and saving you money. Going this path will result in significant savings in the long run.
Contact Momentum AC Services Inc. in Petersburg, FL
For the most reliable air conditioning maintenance and servicing, contact Momentum AC Services Inc! We know you want to keep your home cool and comfortable in the summer while reducing your energy costs. It may seem impossible when it's 100 plus degrees outside but with these adjustments, we're confident you'll see a difference.
Be sure to contact us if you're experiencing any issues with your HVAC. We provide swift and professional service day and night.
Conclusion
It’s important to stay comfortable in your own home, especially during the summer months. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to keep your house cool without spending a fortune. There are many ways to keep your home cool and comfortable on a budget, from window coverings to A/C maintenance. Momentum AC Services Inc. in St. Petersburg, FL can help with home cooling, repairs, and maintenance.
Beat the heat with Momentum AC Services Inc!
Momentum AC Services Inc
Momentum AC Services is a family-owned and operated HVAC company. We offer fast installation of all major brands of air conditioning units with no hidden costs or surprises. Momentum AC will work hard to make sure your new unit is installed on time, runs smoothly for years to come, and that you are completely satisfied with the process from start to finish.
Call Momentum AC Services Inc!
