7 simple steps to lower your home air conditioner costs

As temperatures rise in Windsor Ontario, so do energy bills. But with a few simple steps, you can save money on your home air conditioner while still keeping your home cool and comfortable. From adjusting your thermostat to cleaning your filters, here are seven tips to help you reduce your energy costs and save money on your home air conditioner.

Keep your air conditioner maintained.

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your air conditioner running efficiently and reducing energy costs. Make sure to clean or replace your air filters every one to three months, depending on usage. Check your outdoor unit for debris and clear any obstructions. Schedule annual professional maintenance to ensure your system is running at its best. By keeping your air conditioner maintained, you can save money on energy costs and extend the life of your system.

Use a programmable thermostat.

One of the easiest ways to reduce your home air conditioner costs is to use a programmable thermostat. This allows you to set your air conditioner to automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule. For example, you can set it to turn off or reduce the temperature when you’re not home, and turn on or increase the temperature when you’re back. This can save you up to 10% on your energy bills each year. Make sure to choose a thermostat that is compatible with your air conditioner and easy to use.

Keep your home well-insulated.

Proper insulation is key to reducing your home air conditioner costs. Insulation helps keep cool air inside during the summer and warm air inside during the winter, reducing the amount of energy needed to maintain a comfortable temperature. Make sure your home is well-insulated by checking for gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and other openings. You can also add insulation to your attic, walls, and floors to further improve energy efficiency. This may require an initial investment, but it will pay off in the long run with lower energy bills.

Using ceiling fans throughout the day.

Ceiling fans are a great way to circulate air and keep your home cool without relying solely on your air conditioner. In fact, using a ceiling fan can make a room feel up to 4 degrees cooler, allowing you to raise your thermostat and save money on energy costs. Make sure your ceiling fan is set to rotate counterclockwise in the summer to push cool air down and create a breeze. And don't forget to turn off the fan when you leave the room to save even more energy.

Close curtains and blinds during the day.

Closing curtains and blinds during the day can help keep your home cool and reduce the workload on your air conditioner. Sunlight can heat up your home quickly, especially during the hottest parts of the day. By closing curtains and blinds, you can block out the sun's rays and keep your home cooler. You can also invest in blackout curtains or shades for even more effective heat reduction.

For more money-saving tips, or to schedule an appointment with our Windsor electrician, do not hesitate to call us or submit a contact form.