When the weather is hot, your air conditioning bills can quickly get out of control. Whether the area is currently enduring a heatwave or people in your household just like to keep things cool, you may be surprised by high energy costs if you aren't taking active steps to lower your usage, including the following.

Tips for Lowering AC Costs

1. Shade Your Air Conditioner

Cool air before it ever enters your air conditioner by shading the area outside. Studies have shown that this step can increase efficiency by as much as 10%, so consider planting a tree or hanging a shade sail to block the sunlight around your unit. However, if you build up the landscaping or plant a tree around your air conditioner, maintain the area carefully and watch for fallen leaves, broken branches, or climbing vines, which could fall into your system and damage fan blades.

2. Apply a Window Film

Sunshine can boost your home's ambiance, but UV light can also generate unwanted heat. Luckily, you can purchase window films that block incoming UV light to reduce your summertime cooling costs by as much as 40%. During the application, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to avoid bubbles or debris becoming caught between the window and film.

3. Upgrade Your Thermostat

For greater control over your thermostat settings, upgrade to a smart thermostat. These state-of-the-art components can move into eco modes when you leave your house by tracking your location with a convenient app. As a bonus, they're easy to lock, keeping kids and other people in your household from adjusting settings when they shouldn't.

Maintaining your air conditioning system can also help lower your overall cooling costs, so reach out to Universal Refrigeration in Auburn, WA, if you’re due for an annual inspection. Since 1985, these professionals have been helping home and business owners identify HVAC issues and resolve them proactively, saving people time and money. Learn more about how they can help make your home even better by visiting their website or calling (253) 939-5501.