On hot days, you’ll need to keep the air conditioning on high to cool your home. This could drive up your energy bills and wear out the AC system. Fortunately, there are ways to save while keeping your house comfortable, including working with an HVAC contractor. Here’s what you need to know. 

A Guide to Cooling Your Home on a Budget

1. Invest in a Smart Thermostat

A Wi-Fi controlled thermostat allows you to program the system so that it turns off automatically while you’re running errands or at work. Additionally, you can set it so it goes on 10 to 15 minutes before you arrive home, ensuring that it’s the perfect temperature when you walk in. Finally, the system can be shut off from anywhere using a smartphone, so you’ll never have to worry about heading back to the house to turn it off.   

2. Improve AC Energy-Efficiency 

Keep heat-creating appliances away from the thermostat, as they can cause the AC to run longer than necessary, wasting energy. Also, remove any dirt or leaves from the outdoor condenser unit, as debris can reduce efficiency; have an HVAC contractor do a more thorough cleaning at least once a year.​​​​​​​ To maintain proper airflow, vacuum the indoor supply vents at least once a week, making sure there’s no dust or blockages.  

3. Shut the Shades

Close the blinds and curtains in the middle of the day, as the sun will heat your home, forcing the system to work harder. Also, layer the shades behind drapes to add extra insulation from UV rays. If you plan on replacing your current window attachments, choose solar shades, which are engineered to block the sun and reduce heat while letting light into the room. 

If you’re interested in saving on your energy bills, contact the HVAC contractors at Forquer Heating & Air Conditioning. Serving Akron, OH, they have over 40 highly trained technicians and more than 40 years of experience in the business. They’ll inspect your system, fix any issues, and clean the components to ensure that it’s working as efficiently as possible. Call (330) 644-7811 to speak to a member of their team, or visit their website to learn more about their services.