How You Can Reduce Energy Bills This Summer in Sumter, SC
For many homeowners, heating and cooling costs account for more than half of annual utility bills. Fortunately, there are various ways you can reduce the skyrocketing electricity bills, ranging from extensive home improvements to simple behavioral adjustments. Read on for a compilation of tips on how you can reduce energy bills this summer in your Sumter, SC, home.
Close Your Doors and Windows
The first logical thing to do on a hot day is to open up the windows to let in some fresh air. However, when cooled air from your HVAC system leaks from your indoor space, the HVAC equipment has to work harder to achieve the temperature you prefer.
When it’s hot outside, your indoor temperatures tend to increase significantly as well. This adds to the workload of your cooling system. Having your HVAC system running a lot less goes a long way toward keeping the energy bills low.
Insulate Windows to Block the Sunlight
Most of the temperature buildup you experience in your home is a result of the sun’s heat coming through your windows. This is why drawing curtains and blinds is one of the easiest ways to keep indoor temperatures low. When windows are uncovered, shortwave radiation from the sun is able to enter your living space and become heat.
Reflective shades are much more effective than regular ones since they deflect the rays. Heat buildup from the sun may keep your HVAC running unnecessarily and increase the amount of energy the system uses.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is an energy-efficient device that allows you to program when your HVAC system should run. Smart thermostats, through sensors, can tell when you are not at home or when you are asleep. At these times, the thermostat automatically alters the temperature settings to conserve energy.
Another key benefit of installing a programmable thermostat in your home is that you can adjust the temperature settings remotely. This comes in handy when you want to return to a cool home in the evening after a sweltering summer afternoon. Instead of leaving the AC on a lower setting as you head out, you can remotely adjust the AC to start running cooler a few minutes before you arrive home.
Maintain Your HVAC System
Maximizing your HVAC system’s efficiency is important in reducing energy consumption and keeping your home comfortable for you and your family. Scheduling regular maintenance visits can save you up to 15% on annual energy costs. An HVAC unit that runs smoothly does not have to be running continuously to meet your temperature requirements.
Apart from saving you loads of cash on cooling costs, a regularly maintained HVAC unit could last longer and minimize the number of times you have to call in the technicians for costly repairs. HVAC units are already the energy hogs of most homes; therefore, it makes perfect sense to avoid any additional energy consumption.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Home Appliances
Having home appliances designed with energy efficiency in mind can go a long way to helping you reduce energy costs in your home. Modern energy-efficient appliances come at a higher purchase price. But over time, the energy-efficient models save you a lot of money since their operational costs are up to 20% lower than those of conventional models.
Upgrade to appliances that have the federal ENERGY STAR label, so you can enjoy smaller energy bills. The ENERGY STAR label helps you identify and purchase certified, energy-efficient appliances will consume less energy during operation without sacrificing performance or comfort. However, it is important to note that the energy savings will differ for specific appliances in your home.
Contact Air Solutions Heating and Cooling to enjoy reliable HVAC installation and repair services from our certified technicians. We are passionate about bringing comfort and efficiency to your home, and our team of experts offers top-notch professionalism.
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