During the hot summer months, air conditioning in West Monroe, LA is essential for overcoming the sticky, almost unbearable heat. Summer has the distinction of having the highest electric bills, especially during the hours of 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.
If you’re worried about paying high energy bills caused by frequently running your air conditioner, it’s essential for you to know that there are steps you can take to reduce those costs. These steps aren’t intended to make your home uncomfortably hot; instead, they’re meant to help you increase your cooling system’s efficiency. Here are a few effective ways to save money on your AC this summer.
1. Replace Your Air Conditioner Filter Each Month
When your AC filters are dirty, your air conditioner has to work harder to disburse cooled air throughout your home. This makes the unit less efficient, causing it to need to run longer to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
2. Turn Your Thermostat Back When You Aren’t at Home
There’s no need to keep your home at the same temperature for hours during the hottest time of the day when no one is there. Before you leave in the morning, set the thermostat 5 to 10 degrees higher. When you’re back home, adjust the thermostat to your preferred temperature.
If you dread the thought of coming back to a home that’s not at your ideal temperature, invest in a programmable thermostat that will allow you to adjust your home’s temperature on a set schedule and when you’re away.
Avoid turning your AC all the way off while you’re away, as the work required to return your home to a comfortable temperature when your AC is completely shut off makes it less efficient.
3. Use Your Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are a valuable tool for circulating the cool air in your home so that your AC is more efficient. This helps cool air reach the lower levels of your home, and the moving air is useful for cooling your body temperature.
4. Install Blackout Curtains
Blackout curtains are perfect for any room that you don’t use during the day or where you are okay keeping the drapes closed. These curtains prevent sunlight and UV rays from entering your home and increasing your home’s temperature.
5. Be Smart with Your Cooking
Summer afternoons aren’t the best time to try a new recipe or cook your favorite roast in the oven, as cooking adds a lot of heat to your home’s interior. Instead, opt for grilling or use smaller appliances that produce less heat, like an electric griddle, air fryer, or crockpot.
If you need to cook, consider doing so during the cooler morning or evening hours.
Schedule Service for Your AC
Regular AC maintenance keeps your unit running as efficiently as possible. If you need to replace your unit, it’s important to understand your options.
Contact Mike Smith Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC today to schedule an appointment with your professionals. We provide “Professional Grade Service.”