Summer is around the corner and temperatures in the Mid-South will be on the rise. And while we might all love days at the pool, the beating sun with hot humidity generally means increased energy bills.
This year, follow these six steps to lower your bills.
#1 Adjust your thermostat
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save 10% on your energy bill by setting your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees from your normal setting for eight hours a day. If your normal temperature is 70 degrees, and 77 degrees is just too warm to manage; the U.S. Department of Energy also states each degree above 72 can save up to 3%.
#2 Install a programmable or smart thermostat.
Programmable thermostats allow residents to set a schedule for those who have routine schedules, avoiding the hassle of remembering to adjust your thermostat. According to a white paper from Google’s Nest Thermostat, users saved around 10-15% on their heating and cooling bills. One more reason to purchase a programmable thermostat is that many provides offer additional rebates on your energy bill.
#3 Flip the switch on ceiling fans.
Did you know a ceiling fan can lower the temperature of a room by approximately 4 degrees? If your fan is running and you don’t feel cooler, make sure your fan blades spin counterclockwise. Blades that spin counterclockwise push the air down creating a nice breeze, and in some cases can maintain the room’s temperature through the day.
#4 Maintain your HVAC unit.
Just like your vehicle, your HVAC unit may not perform its best if your filters are old, your refrigerant levels are low or your vents are clogged. Did you know replacing a dirty, old filter can lower energy consumption by 5% to 15%?
#5 Replace your HVAC unit.
Did you know replacing a 12-year-old system with a new ac will save up to 35% on utility bills? Previously, HVAC units were not available in the variety of sizes they are now, and in many cases, older units are not correctly sized for you space which can force your unit to work harder than necessary. In other cases, old air conditioners simply weren’t as efficient as those made in 2020. Purchasing newer, high-efficiency air conditioners properly sized for your space can lower your cost in the months to come.
#6 Update your interior decorating.
Blackout curtains aren’t just for sleeping in anymore. Spruce up your home and purchase black-out curtains or blinds. More than just decoration, SmartEnergy reports blinds can reduce heat gain by 45% and drapes by 33%.
This summer, let Rescue Your Air & Drain help you beat the heat while protecting your wallet by maintaining your HVAC units.
Call (870) 735-1588 or contact us to schedule your appointment today.