Below are energy-saving tips to help reduce your gas and electric utility bills.
Air Conditioner Efficiency Tips
- Set your thermostat at as high a temperature as comfortably possible in the summer, and ensure humidity control if needed. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be.
- Avoid setting your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you turn on your air conditioner. It will not cool your home any faster and could result in excessive cooling and, therefore, unnecessary expense.
- Consider using an interior fan along with your window air conditioner to spread the cooled air through your home without greatly increasing your power use.
- Avoid placing appliances that give off heat such as lamps or TVs near a thermostat.
Long-Term HVAC Savings Tips
- If your air conditioner is old, consider buying an energy-efficient model. Look for the ENERGY STAR® and EnergyGuide labels — qualified room air conditioners are 10% more efficient, and qualified central units are about 15% more efficient than standard models.
- Consider installing a whole-house fan or evaporative cooler if appropriate for your climate.
So, what’s the big deal about changing or cleaning the air filter(s) at home? We’re glad you asked! A dirty filter makes your heating system work harder, which uses more energy. Simply replace your filter every few months or opt for a washable one – they can last up to five years. And don’t forget: changing your filters can cut down on dust around the house.
You probably change the oil in your car more than once a year. You should also properly maintain your heating and cooling system with regular service calls from a licensed technician. Like air filters, dirty coils and fans reduce airflow through your heating and cooling system. Annual or semi-annual check-ups can improve your system’s efficiency and prevent costly repairs.
You can save around 10 percent a year on your heating and cooling bills by simply turning your thermostat back 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours a day. If that sounds like a difficult task, then you should think about installing a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats allow you to automatically set specific temperatures at different times of the day.
The ceiling fans in your home are a great way to stay cool in the summer – and warm in the winter. Simply set the fans to operate in a clockwise direction. This will push warm air, which collects near the ceiling, back down into the room. And don’t forget to shut off ceiling fans when you’re finished in a room. Doing so will just add to your energy savings.
Call Hays Heating and Air Conditioning Inc today at (919) 471-8020 to get professional, courteous, and prompt service for your residential or commercial heating and cooling needs.
Licensed and Insured: NC State License #21255
