As a homeowner in Texas, you may know that cooling off your home in the summertime can be costly. When the weather gets warm, your electricity bill gets higher. So how can you save money on your summer utility bill? Let’s take a look at the top three tips for saving energy during the summer.
Tip #1: “The smaller the difference, the smaller the bill.”
Do this: Set your thermostat at the right temperature in order to lower your cooling costs. For the most energy-efficient way to stay cool in the summer heat, set your thermostat at the highest temperature you can bare comfortably. Less energy is used when the difference in inside temperature versus outside temperature is relatively small.
Try this: Try using a programmable thermostat. This will keep your house cool and use energy only when it is most needed. For example, let’s say you have a 9a-5p job. When you’re not at home, the house doesn’t need to stay cold. You can program the thermostat to stay at a warmer temperature when nobody is home. Then you can add a timeframe like 5pm-11pm where the temperature is lower and more comfortable.
Avoid this: Don’t set your thermostat any lower than you normally would. A temperature that is too low can freeze your AC unit and actually do the opposite of cooling.
Tip #2: “Dirty is expensive.”
Do this: Change and maintain your air filters on a monthly basis. Failure to change a dirty filter can lead to HVAC breakdowns and increased electricity bills. A dirty air filter restricts airflow through your home, making the AC unit work harder and longer to cool off the house.
Try this: Change your filters every 2-3 weeks during the summer or when they get noticeably dirty. Keep in mind that environmental factors such as pet hair and smoke will cause the filter to clog quicker. Try setting yourself a reminder to check your air filters at the end of each month to make sure they are clean and working properly.
Avoid this: It’s simple – Don’t forget to change your filters.
Tip #3: “Tune it up!”
Do this: Schedule an air conditioning tune-up to make sure your system is functioning properly. You’ll want to ensure your HVAC unit is operating at its best when the summer heat starts climbing.
Try this: Call Champion Home Services to schedule a top of the line tune-up service. Our service technicians will perform a 17-point tune up that ensures the life and performance of your air conditioner.
Avoid this: Scheduling regular AC tune-ups maximizes the lifespan of your HVAC system. Without tune-ups, you may never know if there is something preventing your AC from working at its peak performance.
