Springtime Heat Wave? Save on Energy Costs, Without Turning Off The AC

These Suggestions Can Help You Stay Cool Without Spending a Lot of Money!

With energy costs on the rise, unseasonably hot weather in May or June may strike a note of concern in any homeowner’s heart, along with the sweaty brow. You might ask, “how much is this going to cost?” as you or someone you love cranks up the air conditioner to return indoor conditions to tolerably balmy.

Even if you don’t think about ways to get the most out of your HVAC system the rest of the year like we do, there are a few things you can do right now to ensure you’re getting the best out of your current system. You’ll also have the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re likely paying the absolute lowest required, given the equipment you currently have.

Our suggestions?

The Kitchen:

First, turn off the stove. You’d be amazed at how much a hot appliance can add to an ambient temperature in the kitchen, as well as to your energy costs. When it’s warm outside, skip the hot meals in favor of easy prep meals that don’t involve heating anything up. Consider buying a rotisserie chicken from the supermarket on the way home, or making a cool, refreshing gazpacho for an easy dinner that everyone will enjoy.

With a little planning, you can avoid steaming up the kitchen and keep your loved ones fed and happy at the same time. Another tip? Avoid putting hot foods in the fridge as well, as it will send your refrigerator into overtime (and mean higher energy bills) to cool everything down. Besides, no one wants a hot meal anyway when the outside air temp gets to feeling like you’re trapped inside a hot toaster.

All Doors and Windows:

When it’s hot outside, it may be time for some Hawaiian ukulele music and an icy drink inside your home. And when you’ve cooled off? Go around to all the doors and windows and make sure they are completely sealed off. Whether you use a rolled up towels against your doors, order a draft stopper from Amazon or rely on your trusty Air-Tro technician to inspect, repair and prevent all hot air leaks from the outside, you’ll notice an immediate difference in the indoor air temp, without having to lower the thermostat.

Vents and Filters:

In line with other techniques for HVAC efficiency, you can also keep your system running properly by immediately cleaning all your AC vents and checking air filters. Blocked by large amounts of household dust, oils and debris, cooler air may not be able to get through to the rooms in your house as effectively. In turn, you may be lowering your thermostat to a far cooler temperature than really necessary, simply to get the system to work correctly. And as we all know far too well, cooler thermostat temps mean spending more money when it comes to your energy bills.

Take some time to inspect your air vents and filters. Clean or change them as necessary. Have questions? Call Air-Tro today to schedule a maintenance visit. The long-term savings throughout the year make this appointment a very cost effective one.

Don’t let your utility bills creep up along with the outside temperature. A little upkeep and some routine repairs can make a big difference. Get in touch with Air-Tro today to discuss how the right HVAC system and appropriate maintenance can keep your costs low. (626)357-3535