Is your air conditioning system up to the task of keeping you cool in the scorching summer heat? If your answer is “Yes, but my bills are sky high!” this post is for you. To help their clients save money on AC costs, Ronnie Ritchie Service Co. Inc. in Waynesboro, VA, offers these tips:

• Reinforce Your Windows: The most energy-efficient air conditioning system is only as effective as the building it serves, especially in terms of insulation. You can block heat by sealing windows with specially manufactured films and screens. Certain window products require the window to stay closed, but that’s no problem when you’ve got an efficient air conditioner running.

• Get A House Fan: Ordinary fans just blow air around, which is helpful only when the weather is just a little hot. But when it’s super hot outside, a ceiling fan or, better yet, a whole-house fan will have a greater effect, especially if you adjust the blades so air blows upward. That may seem counterproductive, but a fan in this position will move hot air away from you, similar to the way a laptop cooling pad works.

• Plant Trees: Does the sun shine directly through your windows? Consider planting shade trees or shrubs to block some of the light. They shouldn’t be planted too close to your house — just close enough to block the sun’s path. You will be surprised how much cooler your space will be!

• Get AC Repairs & Maintenance: Changing the filter every month and having an annual air conditioning tune-up are simple ways to keep your system working efficiently. Ronnie Ritchie Service Co. Inc. can take care of these tasks, and provide other expert services.

• Install A Programmable Thermostat: A thermostat update will allow you to program your air conditioner to run more when you’re home and less while you’re at work. This will reduce the number of times your unit has to cycle on, cutting your operating costs.

For help with AC repair or maintenance, or to buy a new air conditioning unit, call Ronnie Ritchie Service Co. Inc. at (540) 942-1415, or send a message online. You also can visit their website for more information about their heating and cooling services.