Your guide to saving on your A/C bill this summer.
High summer cooling bills can be a real bummer.
The birds are chirping, the sun is shining, and the windows are open. But scorching summer temperatures are on the way, and that means higher electric bills as you crank up the A/C. Here are some ways to trim that expense without getting overheated.
Get a tune-up.
If you haven’t had your A/C serviced since last summer, now’s the time. Fact is, you should have it done over every spring when you start using it. The technician will clean the condenser coils, check refrigerant levels and make sure everything is in good working order.
Film it.
Replacing your windows is a great way to improve energy efficiency. Even installing storm windows over older windows can cut costs. If that’s not in your budget, window film can block UV rays to keep heat out of your home, protect your furniture from sun damage and even add some privacy.
Seal it up.
Checked the caulking around your windows lately? How about weatherstripping around windows and doors? Chances are, the cool air you’re paying for is leaking out at those spots. Making sure you have a nice tight seal around windows and doors can help you keep your cool—and keep more of your money.
Get smart.
A smart thermostat, or a programmable one, can yield big savings on your energy bill. You can make sure your A/C is only running when you’re home, awake and active. A smart thermostat will learn your patterns and adjust the temperature of your home accordingly. Plus, you can control it from anywhere via your smartphone.
Throw some shade.
Window coverings keep sunlight—and, therefore, heat from getting inside. Thick blackout curtains are the best option, but any curtains, blinds or shades will do.
You don’t have to black out your entire living space. Just drawing the curtains on the sunniest side of the house will help a lot. You can also plant trees or shrubs around your home to shade your windows and keep the inside cooler naturally.
Go solar.
One way to battle the sun is to use its own power against it. Solar panels can be pricey, but they pay for themselves in a few years. In fact, you could end up enjoying free electricity on top of government rebates and other financial incentives.
Grill, baby.
Cooking even a small meal can really heat up your kitchen, gobbling up energy as your A/C is forced to work overtime. So why not take advantage of the nice weather and cook outside as much as possible?
Swap out those filthy filters.
Clogged, dirty HVAC filters force your A/C to work harder than it should, costing you money. Change them at least every three months in the summer—more often if you have pets—to keep air flowing freely and keep your cooling costs down.
Investigate your insulation.
Your home’s insulation doesn’t just keep you warm in the winter, it also keeps you cool in the summer. Cool air doesn’t just leak out through doors and windows, it can also escape through your crawl space, attic and walls, especially if your home is older. Make sure your house is well-insulated, and add to it if needed.
At Frontdoor, we know you love getting things done around the house. Staying in control of your to-do list is easier when you can keep the small things from turning into bigger—and more expensive—ones. We’re here to make it easier to prevent problems instead of reacting to them. We help you gain the peace of mind that comes with staying on top of your home’s health.
Want to learn more about keeping your home cool in the summer, warm in the winter, or just plain homier all year round? Download the app if you haven’t already, and chat with a helpful, friendly Frontdoor expert.
Frontdoor assumes no responsibility, and specifically disclaims all liability, for your use of any and all information contained herein.
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