The weather is getting warmer, and soon you'll be relying a lot more on your air conditioner than in previous months. Of course you want to stay cool, but what can you to do save on energy costs? 

Guelzow Heating & Air Conditioning Service has been installing and repairing heating and cooling systems for the residential and commercial communities in Wisconsin Rapids, WI since 1953, and they have 10 superb energy saving tips about how to use your air conditioner this summer, as well as other tricks you can employ to avoid getting slammed by your energy bills:

• Service your air conditioner. When your AC isn’t properly maintained, it has to work harder to keep you cool, and this means using more energy. A well-maintained air conditioner ends up saving you more money.
• Be warmer at night. When the sun goes down, the nights are cooler—thus, you won’t need to run your air conditioner as frequently or keep the temperature as low when you sleep.
• Keep it warmer when your home is empty. Put your AC at 85 degrees and keep the curtains closed to keep out the sunlight when you’re not home. This way, when you return, your air conditioner will not have to work as hard to cool down your home. 

  

• Use a fan. You may rely mainly on your air conditioner, but don’t forget your fan. You can use it to circulate the cool air in your room and your AC won’t have to work as hard. Fans also use less electricity, so this contributes to your energy savings.
• Close off vents. If you have a central air system, close off the vents to rooms that are rarely used. You can also close off the vent to your basement, which is usually the coolest room in the house, and thus not in need of the extra cold air.
• Spend time in your basement. Since your basement will be the coolest room in your home, you can spend some time down there when you want to give your air conditioner a break.
• Don’t use the stove or oven. Limit the heat inside your home and avoid cooking during the daytime. Use your microwave as an alternative to heating your food.
• Cover your windows. Keeping your curtains closed will keep out the sunlight and prevent your home from the extra heat. You can also tint your windows, which will block out sunlight and UV rays, while still allowing you a view.
• Take a quick shower. Spray yourself with cool water or place a cool cloth on the back of your neck.
• Set your AC to 78 degrees. This is the ideal temperature that will keep your AC energy efficient while you stay comfortable.

Every effort you make to conserve energy will be reflected in your bills. Contact Guelzow Heating & Air Conditioning Service at (715) 423-1086 to ask about their AC repair, installation, and maintenance services. You can also visit their website for information about their furnace installation, emergency furnace repair, and additional services.