Save electricity and money this summer with these air conditioning tips.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, air conditioning accounts for about 6% of all residential electricity use in the country. This translates in an annual $29 billion in electricity every year. With energy costs ever increasing, it’s in every homeowner’s best interest to ensure that their air conditioning unit is operating at peak efficiency. Save electricity and money with these air conditioning tips this summer.
- Adjust Your Thermostat
The easiest way to maximize the efficiency of your air conditioning unit is by turning up your thermostat. Simply raising your thermostat by a couple of degrees can save you a considerable amount of money every year. Additionally, if you have a digital or smart thermostat, then you should program it so your air conditioner only switches on when someone is at home. This way, you don’t waste money and energy cooling down a home that no one is there to enjoy.
- Insulate Your Duct Work
If your HVAC system’s ductwork runs through non-air-conditioned spaces (like your attic or garage), then the cooled air might heat back up on the way to your home’s vents. Naturally, this will force your air conditioner to work harder to keep your home cool. To prevent this waste of energy, you should insulate your ductwork to ensure that cool air remains cool as it travels to your home.
- Use Appliances Wisely
Certain appliances like your stove, oven, and dryer can increase the temperature of your home, forcing your air conditioning unit to work harder to keep things cool. To minimize the impact of these heat-generating appliances, you should avoid using them at the hottest times of the day when your air conditioner is already working its hardest. For maximum efficiency, wait until the evening to use heat-generating appliances because that’s when it’s easier for your air conditioning unit to keep your home cool.
Here are some of the air conditioning tips that you should try to save money and electricity. Want another way to save some money? Then make sure you have the right home insurance to fit your needs and your budget. For assistance with your home coverage, contact the experts at Mike Leonard Insurance Agency. Our dedicated team is eager to find you the right coverage from one of our many carriers including: Kemper, MetLife, Nationwide, Travelers, The Hartford, Safeco Insurance, Progressive, and American Strategic Insurance.