Many people want their homes nice and cool during the summer. They turn that thermostat way down because they like the cool air coming out of the vents. The problem is that if it’s really hot outside, your air conditioning system is going to have to work extra hard to get the temperature down to where you want it. You may notice that the air conditioning unit is running continuously to reduce the temperature.
You may have your home nice and chilly, but you are going to pay for it. Air conditioning is a big money guzzler.
If you want to save money, try a little different approach. Professionals recommend setting your thermostat at 78 degrees during the summer. Naturally, the higher the setting, the more money you save. For every degree over 78, you will save about six to eight percent on your energy bill.
The closer the indoor temperature is to the outdoor temperature, the less work your air conditioning system will have to do. Plus, most air conditioning systems are not designed to cool beyond 68 degrees. Lower than 68, and your unit can actually freeze up, with ice forming on the coils or piping. This will render your unit ineffective at cooling and could damage the compressor.
Instead of relying solely on the air conditioning to keep your home cool, look for other ways to cool it down. Here are a few creative solutions to battling the heat:
1. Use awnings.
You can save as much as 33 percent on your energy bill with an awning, and sometimes you won’t even need to use your air conditioning unit.
2. Plant trees.
Trees provide a lot of shade over your house, which can cool things down and block out the sun.
3. Tint your windows
Solar window film can block up to 80 percent of the heat from the sun and go a long way toward reducing your air conditioning costs.
4. Use ceiling fans.
Moving the air around helps to evaporate the moisture on your skin, keeping you cooler.
5. Paint the roof.
Lighter colors reflect the light from the sun and keep things cooler around the outside of the house.
6. Use blinds and shutters on windows.
Another good way to block out the light and heat so you don’t get baked inside by the sun rays shining through.
7. Use the outdoor grill more often.
Cooking on the kitchen stove constantly and heating up the oven inside only makes things warmer in your home.
Chances are high that you’re going to use your AC unit this summer, especially in Texas. In the weeks before the heat really hits, ask Rescue Air and Plumbing to send a technician out to make sure it’s in top shape and ready to take on a Dallas summer. Call us at (972) 201-3253 for an appointment.