Summer is right around the corner, and that means sunshine, no school, and days spent by the pool. However, it can also mean an increase in the cost of your utility bills, as your air conditioning unit has to work harder to keep your home cool despite rising temperatures outside.

Fortunately, there are some ways you can reduce your cooling bill this summer. Follow these quick tips to stay cool– while also staying within your budget.

Improve Your Home’s Insulation

Taking steps to improve your home’s insulation means that cooled air will stay inside your home longer, and you won’t lose as much of it through leakage to the outdoors. An easy upgrade is to switch your windows to energy-efficient varieties. This is an up-front investment that will save you money in the long run by lowering heating bills while helping the environment at the same time.

Even the smallest cracks around the windows of your home can let cold air out, so use caulk or weather stripping to ensure that each window is totally sealed. If your home is older, it may be wise to add additional insulation to the walls and the attic.

Reduce the Heat Indoors

Making a few small changes to reduce the heat indoors reduces the need for using your air conditioning as frequently. Using ceiling fans to circulate the air can cool down a room by an average of six or seven degrees by creating a breeze indoors. If run concurrently with the air conditioner, it can disperse cooled air more widely. Just remember to turn off the fan when you leave the room.

You can also avoid cooking indoors on ovens and stovetops during the hottest hours of the day, as these appliances generate large amounts of heat and require your air conditioner to work a lot harder to compensate. Try an outdoor cookout on the grill, or if you have to cook indoors mid-day, opt for a crockpot or griddle.

You can also reduce the amount of direct sunlight coming into your home by lowering the blinds over the windows or planting shade trees near the home.

Maximize Your AC Unit’s Efficiency

Your air conditioning unit’s efficiency can benefit from regular maintenance, which will decrease the energy it requires to operate effectively. Make sure to replace the filter at least every few months, more if you have kids, pets, or particularly bad air quality. Dirty filters decrease the efficiency of your unit, so changing the filter monthly can lower energy consumption. Check that the outdoor unit isn’t blocked by leaves or other debris.

At least once per year, have your air conditioning unit professionally serviced by an HVAC technician. They will be able to thoroughly clean the equipment, which reduces energy intake while maximizing efficiency at the same time, as well as check all components to identify anything in need of a repair or replacement.

Upgrade Your Technology

Technology can also provide utility bill benefits. Using a programmable thermostat allows you to adjust temperatures during periods when you’re sleeping or not at home, so you only pay for the air conditioning you actually need. This can be done manually or automatically, and can even connect to an app on your phone for remote control.

You can also make your own energy by installing solar panels, usually on the roof. These panels convert the sun’s energy to electricity which can go directly to cooling your home, which means they’re good for the environment and good for your wallet.

Delmarva Heating and Cooling Services

If you’re looking to increase the efficiency of your air conditioning system or need someone to provide maintenance for it, F.H. Furr can help. We’re the local experts in all things heating, cooling, and plumbing, and have been serving satisfied customers throughout the Delmarva peninsula since 1936. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with a technician.