Whenever you start to regularly use your air conditioner this year, you’ll see an increase in your electricity costs. This is normal: central air conditioners are one the biggest users of electricity in homes. However, you might be paying more for cooling than you need to, and we have some advice on ways you can lower those electric costs. Below are various tips, from essential air conditioning maintenance in Nashville, TN to ideas for HVAC and comfort upgrades, that can put some money back in your pocket.
Schedule Professional AC Maintenance
We put this one first because it’s the single most important service you can have for your AC. It not only saves you money by helping to reduce the amount of strain your air conditioner is under, but it also helps to extend its service life and lower the amount of repairs the unit will need in the future.
You’ll save in both the short and long term. You can arrange for high-quality maintenance with us—just join the Premier Maintenance program and we’ll get you the next convenient appointment for an AC tune-up and inspection.
Practice Smart Thermostat Use
One of the simplest yet most effective strategies for saving on cooling costs is to know the right thermostat settings for summer. The US Department of Energy suggests setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re at home and awake, and raising it by 8° when you’re asleep or the house is empty. The air conditioner will need to run less often, and the house will gain heat much more slowly.
Regularly Change the AC’s Air Filter
A dirty air filter restricts airflow, forcing your air conditioning system to work harder and consume more energy to cool your home. By regularly changing your AC’s air filter (every 1–3 months), you can improve your system’s efficiency, reduce your cooling costs, and boost the air conditioner’s performance. This is a simple, cost-effective step, and one that far too many homeowners forget to do during the year.
Install an Advanced Thermostat
Upgrading to an advanced, programmable thermostat can have a major effect on your cooling costs. These devices allow you to set custom cooling schedules, automatically adjusting the temperature based on your daily routine. The even more advanced smart thermostats can learn your preferences over time and adjust settings for optimal comfort and efficiency. We can help you find the right type of thermostat to make the best improvements to your HVAC system.
Always Call for AC Repairs Promptly
If you notice anything wrong with your AC that you can’t solve with basic troubleshooting, please call our technicians for repairs as soon as you can. If you ignore a small sign of trouble, it may lead to a bigger, more costly repair later. The malfunction will likely also cause the air conditioner to lose energy efficiency and drain more electricity. Keeping your AC working efficiently is one of the keys to keeping cooling costs in check.
Remember, just a little prevention goes a long way toward saving on your summer bills. If you have any concerns about your air conditioning system or you’re ready to schedule maintenance, don’t hesitate to contact us.