Here’s what you can do to help offset those summer energy costs
It’s April in Jerseyville, IL, which means summer will be upon us soon. However, while we may be carried away with visions of summer fun, it’s important to remember that you’ll have to keep your home at a comfortable temperature when it’s rising outside. Energy costs peak in the middle of the summer, and it could have a severe effect on your finances. However, there are some ways that you can keep your energy bills from getting out of control, no matter how warm it gets outside. With that in mind, please read below about all the ways you can save this summer!
Change the Air Filter
First and foremost, you can change your air filter. While this won’t make a huge difference, it’s an essential maintenance task that keeps your unit clean and prevents the flow of dust and hair through the system’s components. By limiting debris, it’s keeping the system in better condition, which helps it function better for longer. Filters should be changed regularly (about once monthly) or on a more frequent basis if you have pets or allergies.
Eliminate Drafty Areas
One of the main culprits behind your home’s spike in energy usage is drafty areas of the house. This draft usually occurs around doors, windows, or anywhere there is a hole or gap inside of your home. Warm drafts from outside can make the thermostat think that it’s warmer than it is, requiring the system to run longer and more frequently.
Keep Windows & Doors Closed
Always keep doors and windows closed when the air conditioner is on. It’s fine to open them up when the weather permits it, but in the sweltering summer heating, they should always be closed if you’re cold. Turn the a/c off or a higher temperature, but don’t open the window to change the temperature. Additionally, limit the number of times that you go in and out of any door in your home.
Block out the Sun
Another option that you have is to block out the sun that’s making your home too warm. With a light-blocking curtain, you can block out the UV radiation that’s heating your home. This could make a huge difference, especially when deployed on windows that receive a large amount of sunlight throughout the day.
Professional Maintenance
While it’s essential to do everything above, it’s most important to have your system maintained by a certified HVAC professional. Almost every company offers HVAC seasonal maintenance that will send a technician out to do repairs, provide service clean, and inspect the unit for potential problems.
HVAC System Replacement
If your system is old or has been neglected for too long, there’s probably nothing that you can do to bring it back. In these situations, it may be in your best interest to replace your old system with a new, energy-efficient model that will help you cut down on your bills. A trained professional can help you choose the system that fits your budget and your needs!
