8 tips to keep ac bill down

8 Tips for Spending Less on AC this Summer for First Time Home Buyers

Posted by Dan Moyle on Fri, May 03, 2013

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Staying cool in the summer can be an expensive affair, especially on days when the AC runs non-stop for relief from the heat. When compared with the cost of home heating during the winter it may not be as high but the monthly bills still add up and so does stress over how to make ends meet.

Nevertheless whether you live in the northwest in Portland, Oregon or in the southeast in Hollywood, Florida there are ways for air-conditioning to be more affordable so the warmer season passes comfortablly without a lot of worrying over finances.

Doing so requires a bit of effort but can be achieved through a number of steps including the following:

1) Drafts

If you’re trying to cool a room and the air escapes or hot air enters through cracks along window and door frames AC systems will use more energy compensating for the loss in temperature. Finding drafts should be a priority so air-conditioning units work more efficiently.

2) Filters

Almost all air-conditioning systems have filters which collect dirty particles. Over time they get clogged resulting in another way AC units end up working harder and use more energy. For better efficiency check filters once a month cleaning or replacing them as needed. Doing so will also enhance the breathable air as a clogged filter may send dirty particles back into the home.

3) Timer

Keeping the AC on a timer or economy setting allows it to cool intermittently rather than every minute of every hour of the day.

4) Energy Saving Models

When it’s time to purchase an AC unit or replace an old one the best choice is buying an energy saving model, which not only lowers bills but is also the environmentally conscious thing to do. Some may even qualify homeowners for a tax break.

5) Layers

In the winter we always talk about wearing layers to stay warm and keep the thermostat down. In the summer when the cold air is blasting inside we have to question whether wearing a sweatshirt or jacket makes sense. If you’re feeling too cold that should be a red flag saying it’s time to turn off the air.

6) Shades

Even when it’s just rays of sunlight beaming through the window the sun is an immense heating source and can work against us when we’re trying to stay cool on a burning hot afternoon. Closing shades is a simple way of keeping the heat out and coming to the aid of your AC.

7) Containment

If you spend most of your time in one or two rooms at home there’s no need to run the AC elsewhere. If your situation allows it section off the areas you reside in most by closing doors and keeping the cool air contained.

8) Shower

Finally, one way to stay cooler and cut back on AC usage is by taking a cold shower. This can quickly change the odds of whether you’ll turn up the thermostat or not. Alternatively a wet towel or hat on the head can create the same effect.

This is a guest article from Jakob Barry. Jakob is a green living journalist for Networx.com. Networx.com helps homeowners save time, money and frustration by connecting them with home improvement professionals. From plumbers and roofers to HVAC contractors, Networx simplifies the process of locating a reliable professional.