Stay Cool While Spending Less
For some homeowners, cutting back on the energy bill is just as important as staying cool in the summer months. Unsurprisingly, running the air conditioner all summer long can increase energy consumption and lead to higher electric bills.
Homeowners don’t know that there are several ways to save on energy consumption and cost during these hot months to save money while keeping cool.
Upgrade to a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
When saving money, homeowners should consider upgrading their thermostat to one that is programmable or has smart capabilities. Both types of thermostats have their advantages, including cutting down energy usage.
Programmable thermostats allow homeowners to enjoy adjusting the temperature to their comfort needs and setting a schedule for when nobody is at home. In terms of saving money, homeowners can expect to save 20% on their energy bills.
These thermostats have advanced Wi-Fi capabilities and often work with Google or Alexa. Some even come equipped to work alongside local weather forecasts to keep temperatures consistent and comfortable.
Similarly, smart thermostats also benefit from cutting back on the energy bill. Some smart thermostats can save homeowners anywhere from 15 to 23 percent on their cooling costs and 10 to 23 percent on their heating costs.
Smart thermostats also allow homeowners to track energy usage and offer homeowners the ability to control their thermostats remotely. They’re also easy to install.
Benefits of Weather Stripping
Weatherstripping is another great way homeowners can reduce energy consumption and costs. This process includes using thick strips to seal openings from doors and windows, thus keeping cold air from leaking outside.
By preventing air leaks, the cold air produced from AC systems and fans can remain indoors instead of escaping outside, allowing things to remain cool and comfortable. With the cracks and gaps of doors and windows filled, homeowners can save around 15% on heating and cooling costs. This is because the HVAC system will not have to work as hard to keep the home cool or warm.
More Fans, Less AC
One of the biggest energy consumers in a home is the air conditioning unit. Because they consume so much energy, homeowners can expect a higher energy bill during the warmer months. However, there are ways to avoid getting too high of a bill.
For example, homeowners should decrease the usage of their air conditioning unit by turning the system off when they leave home or on days that are not too hot. Another way to beat the heat while saving money is to use fans instead of the AC.
Using fans can help circulate the cool air throughout the home, especially ceiling fans. Using a combination of an AC unit and ceiling fans early in the day can be of great benefit. After a few hours of this combination, one can turn the AC off, and the home should still stay comfortable with the assistance of fans.
Homeowners should note, though, that for ceiling fans to work efficiently, they must be turned on counterclockwise to create a downdraft.
About Colonial Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc.
Colonial Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc. offers technicians trained weekly on the best customer support practices and the latest plumbing and HVAC technology. Since 1982, these professionals have provided quality services, including a free estimate and 100% customer satisfaction guaranteed. Contact them for help with AC service in Colonial Heights.
