When the temperature rises outdoors, often our power bills do too. You don’t have to spend a fortune to keep your home comfortable. Here are a few tips to reduce cooling costs this summer.
Reduce Cooling Costs by Keeping Up With Maintenance
Regular HVAC maintenance is the best place to start if you’re hoping to save money on your power bill. A healthy HVAC system works more efficiently. Change the HVAC filters monthly. Before using your system, clean the vent covers and vacuum inside the air vents. This helps the air circulate more freely through your home and the HVAC system won’t have to work so hard to keep the temperature comfortable.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
Technology offers options for reducing energy bills. A programmable thermostat lets you set the temperature for different times of the day. If you’ll be out of the home from 9-5, you can program the thermostat to save energy while you’re away. Another great option for saving money is a smart thermostat. This device can be controlled by your smartphone, even when you’re not home. If you forget to adjust the temperature before leaving for the day, it’s easy to change the setting from your phone.
Close the Curtains to Reduce Cooling Costs
Use blinds or blackout curtains to cover the windows during the hottest part of the day. The sun’s rays will warm up your home, but curtains will block the rays. Close the curtains on sunny days and open them in the evenings.
Use Appliances at Night
The clothes washer and dryer and the dishwasher are a few of your household appliances that generate heat when in use. Wait until evening to wash clothes or run the dishwasher and only use the machine when you have a full load. You’ll save on the power bill and you won’t overheat the house by using your appliances during the hottest part of the day.
Nico Home Inspections provides inspection services to homes in South Florida. Contact us to schedule our services.