15 Ways to Reduce Air Conditioning Costs in Philadelphia
Are you stressed by escalating utility costs this summer? To slash AC costs without compromising comfort, you should adopt energy-saving habits, implement low-cost changes and make strategic long-term investments. Here are 15 proven techniques to consider.
Adopt Good Energy Habits
Trimming cooling system expenditures may be easier than you imagine. Here are some totally free ways to ease your monthly energy bills:
1. Keep curtains and blinds closed: Around 76 percent of the sunlight that streams onto standard double-pane windows enters as heat. By blocking out the sun with insulating curtains and blinds over your south- and west-facing windows, you cut down on solar heat gain in the afternoon and reduce the necessity for air conditioning.
2. Turn up the temperature: You can save up to three percent on your air conditioning expenses for each degree you elevate the temperature. Try establishing a temperature on your thermostat a little higher than usual and running a fan to make up the difference.
3. Flip off the lights when not in use: Lights, especially incandescent bulbs, create a lot of heat. Turning them off when you walk out of the room decreases the interior heat gain your AC must combat.
4. Use appliances strategically: Wait to use heat-generating appliances like the oven, dryer and dishwasher until the cooler point of the day. This technique reduces your AC’s workload during the hot afternoon, bringing down your bill and boosting home comfort.
5. Run kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans: Eliminate heat and humidity while cooking and showering to diminish the workload on your AC.
Invest in Low-Cost Upgrades
If you’re willing to part with a few dollars, you can put an even bigger dent in your AC spending. Here are some affordable enhancements to consider:
6. Install a programmable thermostat: If you still have a manual thermostat, look into upgrading. A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature based on your routine. You can trim AC bills by up to 10 percent by setting the temperature back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours per day. Thanks to automatic recovery periods, you can experience these savings without aggravation or discomfort.
7. Schedule regular maintenance: Your air conditioner should have regular checkups to make certain it runs easily and efficiently. Maintenance visits every spring also give technicians a chance to detect and solve little issues before they grow into expensive repairs. This small, predictable charge provides a substantial return on investment through greater efficiency and helps your AC last as long as possible.
8. Seal leaks: In a large number of homes, leaky windows and doors cause about 25 percent of its cooling energy use. Fix those troublesome leaks with caulk and weatherstripping.
9. Install reflective window film: Window film reflects the sun’s rays to the outside, decreasing solar heat gain. This affordable upgrade is a very good way to enhance your older windows’ efficiency without updating them.
10. Upgrade to LED lights: LEDs produce almost no heat and consume considerably less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. These attributes help keep your home more comfortable and reduce lighting costs as well.
Consider Long-Term Home Investments
If you’re looking93 to make more significant improvements, explore the following investments to cut cooling costs in the long run:
11. Insulate the attic: Hot air can seep through the ceiling if your attic isn’t properly insulated. Look inside the attic, and if you don’t see a deep, even layer of insulation, consider adding more. Depending on what type of insulation you choose, you might need to hire a professional for the job.
12. Plant trees for natural shade: Planting leafy trees on the south and west sides of your house blocks sunlight and produces a cool microclimate around your home, naturally lowering your cooling demands.
13. Replace your windows: Old, single-pane windows let in a large amount of heat, forcing your air conditioner to work harder. Buying new double- or triple-pane windows with advanced glazing features increases your home’s air-tightness and keeps the interior cooler.
14. Upgrade your AC system: Operating an aging air conditioner costs more than you might think. Upgrading from a decade-old 10 SEER model to a modern 15 SEER unit can save you 33 percent on your AC costs. The savings capacity of this purchase is even more if you’re prepared to invest more up front.
15. Install solar panels: Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity to run your HVAC and other electric appliances. The ongoing expense reductions, coupled with tax incentives available through 2035, make this a valuable investment.
Save More on Your AC in Philadelphia With Help From Stallion Heating Plumbing Air Conditioning
At Stallion Heating Plumbing Air Conditioning, we go above and beyond the expected to make sure our customers get133 exceptional HVAC services that help decrease air conditioning costs in the long run. Because of our high-quality products, Expert knowledge and attention to detail, we feel secure backing our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. To learn more about how we can help minimize your summer air conditioning expenditures, please get in touch with the Experts at Stallion Heating Plumbing Air Conditioning. Schedule your appointment today by calling 215-278-9690!
