When you live in the South, there’s no getting around the sweltering heat and humidity of the summer. Fortunately, with reliable heating and AC installation, you can be the master of your indoor climate. But how to enjoy cooler air without blowing your budget on high energy bills? There are some simple strategies that will help. By following these steps, you can still enjoy a cool home without having to overwork your HVAC system.

5 Cost-Effective Strategies to Keep Your Home Cool

1. Open Windows at Night

When the sun has set and the outdoor air cools down, open the windows in your home. Not only will this create a relaxing cross-breeze, but it will also help lower indoor temperatures without any energy use at all. Once the morning temperatures get hotter than those inside, shut your windows promptly to trap the cool air.

2. Use Fans to Your Advantage

Fans use much less power than an AC installation. For this reason, it’s smart to place fans throughout your home so you can maximize airflow throughout all rooms. In addition, be sure to turn your ceiling fans on. This extra movement will help maintain a breezy, light environment while also improving the circulation of air from your AC installation.

3. Minimize Use of Appliances That Create Heat

To keep household energy use to a minimum during peak summer hours, avoid using heat-producing equipment—such as dishwashers, washing machines, and ovens—during the day. Try some exciting new salads and other cold dishes for dinner options. If you have to use an appliance, save chores until the evening when it’s cooler.

4. Draw the Blinds

When you close your blinds or curtains during the day, you can prevent the sun’s heat from creeping in and heating up the home. If your current setup isn’t enough to keep the light out, consider investing in thicker window treatments that are designed specifically to block or reflect the sun’s rays.

5. Replace Air Filters Regularly

Every 90 days—or 60 days, if you have pets—you should replace the cooling system’s air filters. When replaced regularly, these inexpensive filters will be able to remove dust and allergens to improve your indoor air quality. Clean filters also help air move more efficiently, reducing the amount of energy your HVAC system will have to put out to maintain desired temperatures.

When you want to maximize the efficiency of your HVAC system, turn to the specialists of Robert L. Shealy Heating & Air Conditioning. As trusted heating and AC installation specialists serving the West Columbia, SC, area, these technicians provide in-depth preventive maintenance and repairs to ensure your equipment runs optimally all summer long. If you want to upgrade to an energy-saving solution, this team also offers quick and convenient AC installation. To learn more about the services they offer in Lexington and Richland counties, visit this HVAC company online. To request assistance in Columbia or Lexington, call (803) 796-1923.