Families often spend hundreds of dollars each month to cool their homes. By making some adjustments and scheduling A/C repair, you may be able to lower the utility bills and spend that saved money on fun seasonal activities. Here are five tips for reducing utility costs and improving energy efficiency in your house.

5 Steps to Reduce Utility Costs

1. Turn Up the Thermostat

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting the thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit while at home. If you’re still uncomfortable at this setting, try lowering it one degree at a time and adding humidity control. Using a dehumidifier can dry out the air and help sweat evaporate faster, using the wind chill effect to lower body temperature by increasing air circulation.

2. Weatherproof the Windows and Doors 

Homeowners may lose hundreds of dollars per year on air that leaks out of the house through unsealed doors and windows. Add weatherstripping foam to the window tracks to prevent air exchange. Install adhesive gasket stripping around the doors to reduce energy loss around the frame.

3. Get an A/C Inspection

Contact an HVAC contractor to perform an annual air conditioning inspection in the spring. They’ll assess the outdoor unit to make sure it’s free from debris and that any landscaping is far enough away that it won’t interfere with the unit. They’ll check the ductwork to look for clogs and mold growth, as well as change the air filters and run the system to see if it’s working smoothly and quietly.

4. Make A/C Repairs

These professionals may mention getting A/C repair if the system isn’t reacting to the thermostat or the unit has a refrigerant leak making it work harder to cool the home. Getting an inspection can save you money on expensive repairs by diagnosing and fixing the issues early. It will also ensure the HVAC is working efficiently to save you money on utility bills.

5. Install a New HVAC

Most central air conditioners have a lifespan of around 15 years. If your system is nearing this age or you’re repeatedly scheduling A/C repairs, consider upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model. An HVAC specialist can recommend the best system for your home based on square footage, climate, and room configuration.

Look for an Energy Star® model that uses the least amount of power to provide cooling air. You’ll save money on bills and potentially earn rebates on this appliance purchase.

Homeowners interested in A/C repair or HVAC service to lower utility bills should contact ABC Heating Cooling & Plumbing Inc in Jefferson County, PA. The family-oriented company has been in business since 1994, providing reliable service for area households. Call the Brookville-area company at (814) 856-3211 or visit the website for information on their trusted manufacturers, like GreenTech Environmental®, Carrier®, and Rinnai®.