15 Ways to Reduce Air Conditioning Costs in San Antonio
Are you burdened by skyrocketing utility costs this summer? To slash AC costs without compromising comfort, you should adopt energy-saving routines, implement low-cost changes and make strategic long-term investments. Here are 15 proven techniques to consider.
Adopt Good Energy Habits
Trimming AC expenses may be easier than you think. Here are some totally free ways to ease your monthly utility bills:
1. Keep curtains and blinds closed: Around 76 percent of the sunlight that hits standard double-pane windows enters as heat. By shutting out the sun with insulating curtains and blinds over your south- and west-facing windows, you minimize solar heat gain in the afternoon and reduce the need for air conditioning.
2. Turn up the temperature: You can save up to three percent on your air conditioning expenses for each degree you increase the temperature. Try turning up the temperature on your thermostat a tad higher than usual and using a fan to make up the difference.
3. Switch off the lights when not in use: Lights, especially incandescent bulbs, create a whole lot of heat. Turning them off when you leave the space reduces the interior heat gain your air conditioner must combat.
4. Use appliances wisely: Wait to use heat-generating appliances like the oven, dryer and dishwasher until the coolest time of the day. This strategy reduces your AC’s workload during the hot afternoon, lowering your bill and boosting home comfort.
5. Run kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans: Get rid of heat and humidity while cooking and showering to reduce the workload on your AC.
Invest in Low-Cost Upgrades
If you’re willing to invest a few dollars, you can put an even greater dent in your AC expenses. Here are some cost-effective improvements to consider:
6. Purchase a programmable thermostat: If you still have a traditional thermostat, look into upgrading. A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature depending on your schedule. You can slash AC expenditures by up to 10 percent by dialing the temperature back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours per day. Thanks to automatic recovery periods, you can experience these savings without aggravation or discomfort.
7. Schedule regular maintenance: Your air conditioner needs regular checkups to ensure it runs correctly and efficiently. Maintenance visits every spring also give technicians a chance to identify and deal with little issues before they grow into expensive repairs. This small, predictable charge provides a tremendous return on investment through greater efficiency and helps your AC last as long as possible.
8. Seal leaks: In a large number of homes, leaky windows and doors are the culprit behind approximately 25 percent of its cooling energy use. Close off those troublesome leaks with caulk and weatherstripping.
9. Add reflective window film: Window film reflects the sun’s rays to the outside, decreasing solar heat gain. This economical upgrade is a great way to increase your older windows’ efficiency without replacing them.
10. Upgrade to LED lights: LEDs generate almost no heat and use a lot less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. These properties help keep your home cooler and lower lighting costs as well.
Consider Long-Term Home Investments
If you’re ready93 to make more significant improvements, consider the following investments to cut air conditioning costs in the long run:
11. Insulate the attic: Hot air can get through the ceiling if your attic isn’t sufficiently insulated. Peer inside the attic, and if you don’t see a thick, even layer of insulation, consider adding more. Depending on what form of insulation you select, you might need to contact a professional for the job.
12. Plant trees for natural shade: Planting leafy trees on the south and west sides of your house reduces sunlight and generates a cool microclimate around your home, naturally reducing your cooling demands.
13. Replace your windows: Old, single-pane windows let in a lot of heat, making your HVAC system to work harder. Buying new double- or triple-pane windows with state-of-the-art glazing features improves your home’s air-tightness and keeps the interior cooler.
14. Upgrade your AC system: Running an aging air conditioner is more costly than you might think. Upgrading from a decade-old 10 SEER model to a modern 15 SEER unit can save you 33 percent on your AC bills. The savings capacity of this purchase is even higher if you’re prepared to invest more up front.
15. Install solar panels: Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity to run your HVAC and other electric devices. The ongoing expense reductions, together with tax incentives available through 2035, make this a worthwhile investment.
Save More on Your AC in San Antonio With Help From Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air
At Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air, we make the extra step to deliver133 exceptional HVAC services that help cut air conditioning costs in the long run. Because of our top-quality products, Expert knowledge and attention to detail, we feel very comfortable backing our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. To learn more about how we can help lower your summer AC expenses, please contact the Experts at Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air. Schedule your appointment today by calling 210-404-4233!