Cooling your home or office, especially in warm weather, can be costly, but it doesn’t have to be. Below are some simple strategies to lower your energy bills throughout the year. Some of these hacks may require little effort on your part; others may require the services of a certified HVAC contractor.

3 Ways to Lower Your Energy Bills

1. Make Shades Work for You

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, more than three-fourths of the sunlight that hits double-paned windows turns to heat. To lower heat transfer and save on energy costs, use light-blocking curtains, blinds, shades, or films, especially on windows that get direct sunlight. Planting trees or shrubs near windows on the western and southern sides of your home will also help moderate solar heat. 

2. Maintain Your AC

Cleaning or replacing clogged AC filters every month or as recommended by your HVAC contractor can easily cut your energy bill by at least 5%. Dirty evaporator and condenser coils compromise an AC’s efficiency, so clean these components as well. At the same time, ensure that an outdoor unit’s condenser coils are free from debris, and keep foliage at least two feet away. 

Maintaining your AC not only helps save energy but also increases the life expectancy of your system, helping you save more money in the long run. 

3. Use a Programmable Thermostat

It’s easy to forget to turn off the AC, especially when you’re in a hurry. With a programmable thermostat, you can set your AC to turn off in the morning and automatically kick back on in the afternoon or evening. Alternatively, you can set a higher temperature during school or work hours, and then lower it a few degrees before you come home. A reliable HVAC contractor will help you select a programmable thermostat and install it.

You can reduce your AC’s energy consumption by minimizing the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures. Consider setting the thermostat a few degrees higher than normal, without necessarily compromising your comfort, and use fans to circulate cooled air around rooms.

An expert HVAC contractor can help maintain your AC and keep it running efficiently for a very long time. Since 1980, Malone Heating & Air has been providing AC repair, installation, and other HVAC maintenance services to residents and commercial establishments in the greater Chattanooga and North Georgia area. The company’s certified technicians are guaranteed to deliver top-quality work and 24-hour emergency support. For inquiries on their maintenance plans and other services, visit their website, or call (706) 259-9333.