Estimated to spend about $128 per month on electricity, Arizona households are some of the biggest energy spenders in the country. Some of these energy expenses are undoubtedly due to the costs of operating residential HVAC systems in the summer. But while beating the desert heat can be expensive, there are many ways to bring energy expenses down. If you’re looking to keep cool and comfortable without breaking the bank, here are a few strategies to help.

5 Ways to Save on Residential HVAC Energy Use

1. Invest in Routine Maintenance  

Every year, you should hire an HVAC contractor to perform a routine inspection and tune-up. During this visit, your technician will clean dirty components, lubricate parts, and check all connections to ensure the system is running as efficiently as possible. You should also replace filters every 60 to 90 days so that a clog won’t prevent cool air from moving through the system.

2. Boost Circulation With Ceiling Fans

Turning on ceiling fans in a counter-clockwise direction can help blow cool air back down. This improved circulation allows rooms to stay cooler for longer, giving the HVAC unit more time to rest in between uses.

3. Watch the Windows

Windows can be a big source of energy loss—especially during the hottest hours of the day. To keep out the summer heat, make sure all windows are fully closed. Drawing the blinds or curtains will also help deflect the sun’s rays to help keep the home cool and reduce your dependence on the air conditioner.

4. Seal Leaky Ducts

When ducts leak, your residential HVAC system will expend excess energy to get cool air throughout the home. To check for leaks, simply follow the ventilation and see if you feel any unusual streams of air. Once you’ve located the leak, seal it with duct tape until you can get more permanent repairs from a professional.

5. Turn Up the Thermostat

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the closer your indoor temperature is to the outdoor climate, the more you will save on energy costs. Specifically, raising the thermostat seven degrees higher than your normal setting could help cut your electric bills by 10%. As such, you should aim to keep the thermostat somewhere between 70 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re not at home, consider increasing the temperature by a few extra degrees until you return.

When you’re looking for effective, affordable ways to cut energy costs this summer, turn to the experts at Degree Air Conditioning & Heating in Mesa, AZ. Offering comprehensive residential HVAC services, these technicians can provide routine maintenance, in-depth repairs, and strategies to help boost efficiency. If your equipment is older, their team can also install reliable air conditioners that carry high energy ratings. To learn more about these options, visit this HVAC contractor online. For service requests, call (480) 983-3012.