15 Ways to Reduce Air Conditioning Costs in Dallas
Are you weighed down by skyrocketing utility expenses this summer? To reduce AC costs without compromising comfort, you should adopt energy-saving routines, implement low-cost changes and make strategic long-term investments. Here are 15 proven techniques to consider.
Adopt Good Energy Habits
Cutting cooling system costs may be easier than you suspect. Here are some absolutely free ways to ease your monthly energy bills:
1. Keep curtains and blinds closed: Roughly 76 percent of the sunlight that hits standard double-pane windows comes into the building as heat. By blocking out the sun with insulating curtains and blinds over your south- and west-facing windows, you lessen 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 cooling expenses for each degree you increase the temperature. Try setting your thermostat a little higher than usual and running a fan to make up the difference.
3. Turn off the lights when not in use: Lights, especially incandescent bulbs, create quite a lot of heat. Turning them off when you aren't in the area decreases the interior heat gain your AC must combat.
4. Use appliances wisely: Wait to use heat-generating appliances like the oven, dryer and dishwasher until the coolest point of the day. This approach reduces your AC’s load during the hot afternoon, minimizing your bill and improving home comfort.
5. Run kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans: Remove heat and humidity while cooking and showering to reduce 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 greater dent in your air conditioning spending. Here are some low-cost improvements to consider:
6. Purchase a programmable thermostat: If you still have a traditional thermostat, think about upgrading. A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature according to your schedule. You can cut AC bills by up to 10 percent by turning the temperature back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours a day. Thanks to automatic recovery periods, you can enjoy these savings without hassle or discomfort.
7. Schedule regular maintenance: Your air conditioning should have regular checkups to ensure it runs correctly and efficiently. Maintenance visits every spring also give technicians a chance to identify and solve small issues before they grow into expensive repairs. This small, predictable cost provides a tremendous return on investment through increased efficiency and helps your AC last as long as possible.
8. Seal leaks: In lots of homes, leaky windows and doors are responsible for around 25 percent of its cooling energy use. Seal those irritating leaks with caulk and weatherstripping.
9. Use reflective window film: Window film reflects the sun’s rays to the outdoors, reducing solar heat gain. This wallet-friendly upgrade is a very good way to improve your older windows’ efficiency without replacing them.
10. Upgrade to LED lights: LEDs generate almost no heat and consume considerably less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. These properties help keep your home more comfortable and reduce lighting costs as well.
Consider Long-Term Home Investments
If you’re prepared93 to make more substantial modifications, 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 has not been sufficiently insulated. Peek inside the attic, and if you don’t see a thick, even layer of insulation, think about adding more. Depending on what type of insulation you choose, you could need to employ a professional for the job.
12. Plant trees for natural shade: Planting leafy trees on the south and west sides of your house reduces sunlight and generates a cool microclimate around your home, naturally reducing your cooling demands.
13. Replace your windows: Old, single-pane windows let in a lot of heat, forcing your air conditioner to work harder. Replacing single-pane windows with double- or triple-pane windows with advanced glazing features improves your home’s air-tightness and keeps the interior cooler.
14. Upgrade your AC system: Using an aging air conditioner is more costly than you might think. Upgrading from a decade-old 10 SEER model to a modern-day 15 SEER unit can save you 33 percent on your AC expenses. The savings opportunities 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 devices. The ongoing expense reductions, combined with tax incentives available through 2035, make this a beneficial investment.
Save More on Your AC in Dallas With Help From Levy & Son Service Experts
At Levy & Son Service Experts, we go above and beyond the expected to provide133 exceptional HVAC services that help reduce air conditioning costs in the long run. Because of our high-quality products, Expert knowledge and attention to detail, we feel confident backing our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. To learn more about how we can help lower your summer cooling expenditures, please contact the Experts at Levy & Son Service Experts. Schedule your appointment today by calling 469-250-0932!
