Spend Less Money and Stay Cooler
It’s no surprise that during the summer, cooling bills skyrocket. When temperatures in West Palm Beach soar, so do homeowners’ energy bills. Many wonders if there’s anything they can do to cut down on cooling costs.
Instead of resigning themselves to a summer of costly AC bills, homeowners can:
Install a Programmable Thermostat
Honeywell and Nest both produce smart home thermostats. These appliances allow homeowners to control their home’s indoor temperature using smartphones. These devices also let them:
- Create schedules: Many people turn their ACs off when leaving for work. The drawback is that they come to a stuffy, hot house. By programming when the AC unit turns on and off, they can save money on cooling costs and prevent the AC from overworking itself.
- Track their energy consumption habits: With a smart thermostat, homeowners don’t have to guess how much their monthly energy bill will be. Instead, using their thermostat’s app, they’ll know exactly how much they’ll spend on utility bills when the end of the month rolls around.
Most thermostats last about 10 years. Once a thermostat hits the 10-year mark, it won’t operate as it should. This makes considering an upgrade crucial.
Weather Stripping the Windows
Once the home reaches the desired temperature, it’s crucial to keep that cold air from escaping. Homeowners can do this by weather-stripping their homes. That means applying rubber, plastic, or foam strips around the home’s windows. This insulates the home and keeps the cold air where it should be: inside.
Weatherstripping the windows could make them spend less money on cooling costs and more time relaxing with their loved ones. Many big-name department stores sell the materials needed for weather-stripping. Of course, they can always reach out to a trained professional in their area.
Use the AC Less and Ceiling Fans More
No one should ever underestimate the value of their home’s ceiling fans. While ceiling fans don’t generate cool air, they keep the air in the home moving, making it feel colder than it is. Here’s what to know about getting the most out of their ceiling fans:
- Use them at night: At night (or during cooler times of the day), a ceiling fan can circulate already-existing cold air rather than relying on the AC to generate more.
- Fans should move counterclockwise: When a ceiling fan rotates counterclockwise, this prevents drafts from building up inside the home.
- Ceiling fans use less energy than air conditioners: The Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy notes that the HVAC system uses more energy than any other system in the house. Those hoping to save a few dollars should turn off the AC at night and instead rely on ceiling fans, which use far less energy.
These are some ways homeowners can save money on their electric bills this summer. They should consider consulting with an HVAC specialist for more information about how to stay cool this summer.
About Cleary Plumbing & Air
Cleary Plumbing & Air has more than 25 years of experience serving Palm Beach County, FL. These professionals offer same-day service, trained professionals, and honest service. Homeowners interested in cutting their home’s cooling costs can call these professionals today for AC service!
