You likely rely on your central air conditioner to stay cool and comfortable throughout the summer, and you may see a spike in the utility bills as a result. Fortunately, you can follow these four simple tips to save money while beating the heat.

How to Reduce Summer Cooling Costs

1. Use a Programmable Thermostat

This type of thermostat adjusts the temperature according to a pre-set schedule. You can program it to reduce power when you’re asleep or out of the house, so you’ll only use the system when you need it. To reduce your bills even further, set the temperature as high as comfortably possible when you’re at home.

2. Avoid Cooking on the Stove

Your stove generates a significant amount of heat, which requires your AC to use more energy to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Instead, prepare your meals on an outdoor grill or in the microwave. If you must use the stove on a hot day, wait until the evening when it’s cooler.

3. Clean the AC Filter

Over time, the AC filter will get clogged with dirt, dust, and other debris. A full filter inhibits airflow, forcing your central air conditioner to work harder and use more energy. This will result in higher cooling costs. To avoid this issue, clean or replace the filter each month.

4. Block the Sun

The sun heats your home through the windows, so keep your curtains, shades, and blinds closed as much as possible to block its rays. If your window treatments are dark, swap them for lighter colors, as they’ll deflect the sun’s rays more effectively. Reducing the amount of heat that enters your home means the central air conditioning system won’t have to work as hard to keep your rooms cool, so you’ll enjoy lower energy bills.

If you want to enjoy cool living spaces without the steep utility bills, contact the team at American Air Conditioning in Honolulu, HI. These HVAC contractors will inspect your existing system to make sure there are no issues that will cause it to overwork itself. If they find a problem, they’ll repair it promptly so that your family can return to enjoying cool comfort. To get more information about their services, visit the website or call (808) 847-0851.