6 Energy-Efficient Tips for the Summer
Summer calls for an exciting time, especially for youngsters who get to enjoy a relaxing vacation. But these hot summer days can be a disaster for your wallet. The largest part of energy bills comes from heating and cooling systems.
Especially during June and September, you can expect the highest electrical bill. Instead of cutting down completely on your air conditioning, you can follow simple energy-efficient tips.
Let’s have a look at some amazing tips to help you keep the temperature and your budget within your comfort zone.
Regular Maintenance of Air Conditioner
The air conditioner requires regular ac service to function efficiently throughout the season. If you neglect AC maintenance, it could lead to poor performance and high energy usage.
Make sure to check the fan, evaporative cooler, heat pump, and coils as these parts require service. Vacuum the air vents regularly to remove any dust buildup. Ensure that the furniture and objects do not block the airway through the vents.
Replace Air Filters
Besides regular maintenance, replacing the air filter is the best way to ensure your air conditioners are running smoothly. With a clean filter, the AC will utilize less energy. Clogged filters block the airflow and reduce the air conditioner’s ability to absorb heat.
If you are unsure of how to replace the air filter for the first time, you can call in an hvac systems technician. It is best to clean the filter every 2 months. When your AC is used more frequently or subjected to excessive dust then you need to replace it more often.
Set Your Thermostat Properly
Set your thermostat as high as possible in the summer, ideally 78 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Every degree of cooling will increase energy usage by 8 percent. It’s best to keep your house warmer than normal when your family is away at work or school. Then you can lower the temperature when they get home.
Avoid lowering the thermostat when air conditioning is running. If you do so it won’t cool your house but result in energy waste.
Switch to LED Lights
You should consider switching to LED lights if you are still using incandescent bulbs. Only 10 percent of the electricity that incandescent bulbs use turns into light and the rest becomes waste heat. So these bulbs are energy inefficient.
Compared to this, LED lights are the most energy-efficient option that is available. Even though they might cost a little bit more, they pay for themselves in energy savings.
Close the Blinds and Curtains
You can close the blinds and curtains during the daytime to prevent the greenhouse effect of the sun. Put on good drapes or shades on the windows that face toward the sun and block it.
You can keep the other shades open to allow natural light into your house without overheating things.
Get an Energy Efficient Humidifier
If you live in a hot or humid area then consider getting yourself a humidifier. It works best with AC and helps lower energy costs. It is a great way to lower humidity levels in your home.
When the air is too humid, the AC works too hard and breaks down more often.