As the summer heat continues to rise, it's essential to find ways to stay cool and comfortable in your home without breaking the bank. At Chapman Bros. Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, we understand the importance of energy efficiency and are here to provide you with top tips to lower your utility bills while increasing comfort. In this blog post, we'll discuss five AC energy-saving tips that can help you save money and stay cool all summer long.
1. Regularly Clean and Replace Air Filters
One of the simplest and most effective ways to improve your air conditioner's efficiency is to regularly clean and replace your air filters. Dirty air filters restrict airflow, causing your AC unit to work harder and consume more energy. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one can lower your air conditioner's energy consumption by 5% to 15%. It's recommended to check your filters every month and replace them every three months or as needed.
2. Seal Your Home's Ductwork
Leaky ducts can cause your air conditioning system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and reduced comfort. The ENERGY STAR program estimates that homeowners can save up to 20% on heating and cooling costs by sealing and insulating their ducts. Have a professional technician from Chapman Bros. Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning inspect your ductwork for leaks and seal them with mastic or foil-backed tape.
3. Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat allows you to set specific temperature schedules for your home, helping you save energy and money. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save up to 10% a year on heating and cooling costs by simply turning your thermostat back 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day. A programmable thermostat makes this process easy and automatic, ensuring your home is always at the optimal temperature for comfort and efficiency.
4. Use Ceiling Fans to Improve Air Circulation
Ceiling fans can help improve air circulation in your home, allowing you to raise your thermostat setting by about 4°F without sacrificing comfort. When used in conjunction with your air conditioning system, ceiling fans can help distribute cool air more evenly throughout your home, reducing the need for your AC unit to work as hard. Just remember to turn off your ceiling fans when you leave the room, as they only cool people, not the space itself.
5. Schedule Regular AC Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial to ensuring your air conditioning system runs efficiently and effectively. A professional technician from Chapman Bros. Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning can inspect your system, clean the coils, check refrigerant levels, and make any necessary repairs. By scheduling regular maintenance, you can extend the life of your AC unit, reduce energy consumption, and lower your utility bills.
At Chapman Bros. Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, we are committed to providing our customers in Cranford, NJ, with the best AC energy-saving tips and services. By following these tips and working with our experienced technicians, you can lower your utility bills and increase your home's comfort. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our energy-efficient solutions.