Energy-Efficient Cooling Tips for Summer
During the hot summers in Chicagoland, it can be very tempting to turn the thermostat down and turn up the air conditioner. However, this will leave you using more energy and spending extra money on utility bills.
Focusing on energy efficiency during the summer months is so important. With our summer cooling tips, you’ll be able to keep your home comfortable while reducing energy use and wear and tear on your air conditioner.
Why Conserving Energy in Summer Matters
Your home uses more energy in the summer, mainly due to your air conditioning system. This puts extra stress on the power grid. Running your AC efficiently and using less electricity means lower utility bills. It also means lower emissions and pollution, leading to a more sustainable home.
How Saving Energy Benefits Your HVAC System
When it doesn’t have to work as hard to cool your home, your cooling system will last longer. Increasing your AC’s efficiency means less wear and tear on your system, saving you money on repairs and saving you from a broken AC during the hot summer .
Proper cooling means your system won’t be cycling on and off, which helps maintain a consistent temperature without hot and cold spots. Energy-efficient systems also filter and circulate air better, which can improve your indoor air quality .
5 Energy Saving Tips for Summer
If you’re trying to increase your AC’s efficiency while conserving energy, try these HVAC tips for summer:
Have the Right Thermostat Settings
It might not sound comfortable, but keeping your thermostat set to around 78 degrees can help you save money. Raising the temperature a few degrees more when you’re not home will stop your system from cooling an empty house and wasting energy.
Use Fans to Circulate Air
Setting your ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise can create a wind-chill effect. This helps move the air around the room better. You can also use box or tower fans to achieve the same effect.
Check for Leaks and Insulation Issues
Seal any gaps or air leaks with weather stripping or caulk. Proper insulation will prevent cool air from escaping and help maintain your home’s temperature. This means your air conditioner will run less.
Block Out the Heat
Enjoying the sunshine outside in summer is nice. However, sunlight coming through your windows can make your home warmer. Using blackout curtains, blinds, or shades will keep your home cool.
Reduce Indoor Heat Sources
Minimize the use of appliances like your oven or stove since they generate heat and can raise the temperature inside. This can make your home uncomfortable and make your AC work harder to combat the excess heat.
Is it Time for an HVAC Upgrade?
If you’re not seeing improvement in your home’s energy consumption and are still dealing with high energy bills in the summer, it might be time to replace your air conditioner.
Upgrading to an energy-efficient HVAC system will help your home use less energy. This change can save you money on your utility bills. Another option is to switch to a ductless mini-split system. This is a good option if you live in an older home or have rooms that do not cool well.
Ready to Boost Your Home's Cooling Efficiency?
Our energy-saving tips for summer are only one part of the equation. To get the most out of your home’s cooling system, it’s important to stay on top of regular HVAC maintenance, like replacing your air filters. Having your air conditioner inspected before the temperatures rise will keep your system running as efficiently as possible all summer long.
Whether you need a tune-up, a new system, or just some expert advice, Service Express is here to help.
