Residential HVAC units are essential to keeping homes comfortable, especially during the hot summer months. However, factors like avoiding necessary maintenance and increased energy usage can lead to higher-than-normal utility bills. Here is a guide to help you save money with your air conditioner this season.

4 Money-Saving Tips for Your AC

1. Utilize Your Window Treatments

If direct sunlight pours through your windows every day, the sun is undoubtedly heating your home and forcing your AC to work harder than necessary. Closing your blinds, curtains, and shades during the height of the day’s heat can lead to tremendous energy cost savings. Additionally, lighter colored window treatments will deflect the sun’s rays, rather than absorb them, thus keeping your home even cooler.

2. Turn on Your Fans

Regularly running your floor or ceiling fans can make a room feel instantly cooler. Even though the temperature hasn’t dropped, the chill fans provide can increase comfort levels without having to reach for the thermostat. These can be a big help during the summer when family members are inside more frequently and want to cool off without driving up energy costs.

3. Be Smart With Your Thermostat

Remember that the smaller the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the less money you’ll spend each month. Running your residential HVAC unit throughout the day when no one is home will likely result in unnecessary energy costs. Instead, remember to crank up your unit to 78 degrees Fahrenheit or higher when you leave for the day. You can also cut costs by turning up your AC later in the evening when your home is no longer being warmed by the sun.

4. Avoid Excess Heat

Lastly, homeowners can reduce residential HVAC costs by reserving household chores like running the dishwasher or dryer until after dark. Since these appliances generate heat to do their job, they can cause your AC to turn on more frequently to compensate. Day-time baths or showers can also increase indoor heat and humidity levels, so don’t forget to flip on your bathroom exhaust fan to remedy the issue. Avoiding heat buildup can go a long way in reducing your energy costs as well as improving your household’s carbon footprint.

Looking for a reliable HVAC contractor specializing in residential HVAC units? Turn to Apollo Refrigeration in Hamden, CT. As the area’s premier leader in AC repair and installation, these licensed, bonded, and insured technicians have been ensuring customers stay cool in their homes for over 40 years. They also offer complete repair and installation services for your pressing refrigeration issues, including walk-in refrigerators and commercial ice machines. To schedule residential HVAC or refrigeration services, call Apollo Refrigeration today at (203) 777-6291. You can also visit them online to schedule a free estimate or learn more about their extensive list of services.