How to Save Money on Air Conditioning
It can be very hard to stop the electric bill spiral out of control especially during hot weather. There are several ways to save money on air conditioning and stay chilled.
Here are some of the tips to save money on air conditioning.
When hunting for air conditioner make sure that it efficient, for this look around that the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio(SEER) is 13 or 14 for warmer climates. For room air conditioner go for air conditioners with Energy Efficiency Ratio(EER) of 11 or more. An air conditioner with high efficiency unit might costs more but it will surely control your electrical bills from skyrocketing in long run. Thus, keep the energy star rating in mind while shopping for an air conditioner.
One must maintain the air conditioning regularly. Filters should be replaced monthly and one should call for the professional service of the system in the beginning of the season. So that your air conditioner will run at peak efficiency.
It is also advisable to replace your old conditioning system with SEER of 8 as they are the biggest energy suckers. Get a new air conditioner system which is more energy efficient. Your cost will be covered in few months and it will be totally worth it.
Choose the air conditioning unit according to the size of the room and consider other factors like number of windows. It will just cost you more if the unit is too big for your room.
Adjustable or programmable thermostats are another way to save money on air conditioning. This way temperature will be moderated by thermostat on central air conditioning system.
Make use of natural air conditioners also. Plant trees in front of your house so that the sunlight wont hit directly. You can open the windows in the evenings. During the days you might want to keep it closed due to outside heat but in the evenings the air outside is cooler than the hot humid air inside so it is better to let it out. It will surely cut down on cooling costs.
One can also install reflective window tint on the windows so that less heat is absorbed.
Use of ceiling fans especially when the air conditioning is running is a great tip. This way you can increase the air conditioner temperature and it will reduce the costs as the moving air will be circulated by the fan and it will increase the evaporation from the skin and will help you cool off.
It might be frugal to not to run the air conditioner but it is certainly one of the most efficient way to keep your system from jacking up the bill.
Turn off the other electrical appliances when not in use. Turn off the lights, they generate lot of heat. Even other electrical equipment like computers and laptops also generate heat. Make sure they are switched off when not in use.
Thus, make sure you employ some of these tips and energy saving guidelines and stay cool. The best way is to make sure the air conditioning unit is upgraded, running smoothly and you home is weatherproofed.
