If you’re like most people, you likely notice a sudden increase in cooling costs every summer. After all, running the air conditioner to keep your home comfortable requires a significant amount of energy. So what can you do to reduce these costs? The following information outlines a few tricks you can try to help you save some money this season.

Here’s How to Keep Cool & Reduce Air Conditioner Costs This Summer

Adjust the Thermostat

The thermostat’s setting has a direct effect on the energy used to keep your home cool. If you set the thermostat relatively low, such as 68 degrees, there will be a large gap between the outside and inside temperatures. To accommodate for that gap and cool the air enough, your air conditioner will have to work much harder. Try setting your thermostat to 75 degrees, or even higher if possible, as this will reduce the amount of energy needed to cool your home.

Rely on Circulating Fans

Though fans won’t provide cooler air for a room, they can distribute the air evenly. By moving air around a specific room, they pull body heat away from the skin, which makes you feel cooler than you would without them. Choose an efficient ceiling, tower, or box fan to help you get the most out of this device. You’ll even be able to increase the thermostat’s temperature to save money without sacrificing your comfort.

Use Shade

Additionally, you can limit the effect of the sun on your home’s interior. Leaving windows wide open throughout the day lets in the most natural light. However, it also allows the sun’s warmth to heat up the room like a greenhouse. Instead, use drapes and blinds to prevent that heat from coming in. You can also plant trees and shrubs to provide shade and absorb heat.

 

One of the most important ways to reduce cooling costs in the summer is to have your air conditioner inspected and maintained yearly. Thankfully, the HVAC experts at A. Stevens Plumbing & Heating, based in Washingtonville, NY, provide the services necessary to ensure your system runs as efficiently as possible. Serving the community for more than 30 years, these heating and cooling contractors are dedicated to ensuring 100% satisfaction on every job. To learn more about their services, visit them online. Schedule an appointment by calling a team member today at (845) 496-5903.