It may just be spring, but West Texas is already feeling the heat! You may be wondering how you can cut cooling costs and save money this season. Follow these steps (and build the habits) to cut cooling costs once and for all.
- According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you could boost your AC’s efficiency by up to 10% by planting trees or shrubs that will shade your outdoor air conditioner unit.
- When you aren’t at home or when everyone is asleep at night, increase the temperature of your air conditioner’s thermostat more than you would when everyone is at home. Keeping your home at a comfortable 78 degrees and increasing it at night (and when you’re away) can save 5-15% on your air conditioner bills, according to the Department of Energy.
- Don’t forget to regularly replace your AC filter. Keeping your air filter clean allows for good air movement through your home.
- Avoid using the oven and stovetop during the day (the best time to use them is at night). The heat from these appliances increases the heat in your home. During and after cooking, be sure to turn on the exhaust fans. The same rule goes for taking a hot shower. To decrease the heat put off from the shower, turn on your bathroom fan.
- According to the Department of Energy, if you replace your old air conditioner with a new unit, you can cut your cooling costs by up to half (depending on the age of your old unit). When shopping, look for a high-energy-efficiency ratio or EER (or Energy Star). A higher ratio means higher efficiency. Have a look at The Ultimate Comfort System by Lennox here.
- Set your AC fan on “high,” except for humid days, where your fan should be set on “low.”
Hopefully, those ways will help to cut cooling costs during these hot spring and summer seasons! If you’re in the market for a new air conditioning system, now is the time to buy! In fact, you can save up to $1700! Learn more about our current promotion here.