Air conditioners provide sweet relief during the hottest periods of the year. Yet when the system runs consistently throughout spring and summer, your energy bills may skyrocket. There are some ways that homeowners can bring those costs down, however. Here are a few suggestions that may help.

How to Save on Your Utility Costs

1. Adjust the Thermostat

The United States Department of Energy recommends setting the device at the highest possible temperature that still keeps you comfortable during the summer. Alternatively, if you invest in a smart thermostat, you can program the temperature to moderate throughout the day when you aren’t home and then cool back down again close to your arrival time. 

2. Use Fans Strategically

Instead of depending solely on the HVAC system to cool your home, use ceiling fans throughout the house. This is an efficient solution if you tend to spend most of your time in just one or two parts of the home. However, always remember to turn off the fan when you leave the room to avoid energy waste.

3. Block Excess Sunlight

Sunlight coming in can serve to warm a room. Therefore, the air conditioner will work extra hard in rooms with a lot of windows. To prevent this, install effective window treatments, like blinds or curtains, to prevent heat transfer. You might also consider adding a few quick-growing plants and trees to the sides of the house where the sun penetrates the most.

4. Get Air Conditioner Maintenance

If your air filter hasn’t been changed recently or there is a minor problem with your unit, it will cause the system to run less efficiently, raising utility costs. Call an HVAC technician to tighten loose parts, clean essential elements, and lubricate sticky components—not only for the energy savings but also as a means of quieting the system and improving indoor air quality.

In need of air conditioner maintenance? Turn to the team at Mill Creek Heating in Turner, OR. They’ve served the community since 2003, and they’re proud to offer a wide range of residential and commercial HVAC services throughout the Willamette Valley. Trust them to resolve any ongoing concerns and make sure that your unit is in top shape. Visit them online for information about their offerings, or call (503) 749-1000 to schedule an estimate.