Running your AC through the summer keeps you comfortable, but it also comes with hefty energy bills. Fortunately, trying to save money doesn’t mean having to shut the air conditioner off completely. From proper HVAC maintenance to adjusting your thermostat, here are a few tricks to keep your system running while reducing your monthly bill. 

6 Ways to Cut Energy Bills While Running Your AC 

1. Maintain Your Air Conditioner

Proper HVAC maintenance goes a long way when it comes to increasing your AC’s efficiency. For example, replacing clogged filters on a regular basis allows your air conditioner to keep your house cool without having to work as hard by pushing more air through clogged filters.

You should also schedule regular inspections with an HVAC professional, who can catch any underlying problems that cause your system to run poorly, such as broken fans. 

2. Seal Your Home

Your house might be losing cool air through cracks in the attic, doors, or windows. Hire a professional to inspect your home for any seepage and fill the leaks with caulk or insulation.

3. Reposition or Upgrade Your Thermostat

If your thermostat is situated next to any heat sources, such as a lamp or a hot window, it activates your system more often than it needs to. Move heat-bearing electronics away from the thermostat or relocate it to a wall that receives less sunlight.

Consider purchasing a smart thermostat, which can be programmed to cool your house only at certain times of the day. That means you can automatically reduce energy costs whenever you leave for work, since you can program the AC to turn off when you’re not home.

4. Set Higher Temperatures

Increase the temperature on your thermostat when you’re away from. The higher your thermostat is set, the more money you save. In fact, according to the U.S. Energy Department, you can save up 10% on energy a year if you turn the thermostat back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours each day.

5. Use a Ceiling Fan

According to the National Resource Defense Council, ceiling fans lower temperatures by as much as 10 degrees. Try giving your air conditioner an occasional break by switching on the fans instead. Be sure to set the rotation to counterclockwise, which will help push cool air down.   

6. Block Out Light

Sunlight streaming in through the windows can heat up a room quickly, triggering your home’s air conditioner and causing it to run unnecessarily. Plant trees or shrubs outside certain rooms to provide shade and block the sunshine.

Upgrade to double-paned windows to block out UV rays and install light-blocking shades and drapes on all windows to prevent extra sunlight from warming up the space. 

Stay cool this summer with help from AAA Heating & Air Conditioning Service Inc. in Lexington, KY. With over 56 years of experience, they provide premium HVAC maintenance, including air duct cleaning and air quality testing. Dedicated to your comfort and well-being, they deliver only the best in customer service and ensure your heating and air conditioning needs are taken care of. Call (859) 254-8838 or visit their website to learn more about their services.