Minimize Your Summer Energy Costs - Follow These 5 Tips

Oil prices keep going up, and you must be thinking, “what can I do to keep up?” Well, you have come to the right place. Believe it or not, there are easy things you can do to save some serious cash, especially in terms of running your HVAC systems.

Four Seasons Air Specialists is your preferred HVAC company in Circle Pines MN. We help homeowners establish energy-efficient homes by providing outstanding heating and air conditioning products and services.

Here are uncomplicated steps you can take to lower down your energy costs this summer.

Manage your thermostat use.

The Department of Energy states that setting your thermostat at 78 degrees in the summer can lower your energy costs by as much as 10 percent per year. If this temperature is a little too warm for you, you can lower it further to get your desired comfort level. But keep in mind that for every degree you lift your thermostat above 72 degrees, you can save up to 3 percent of your cooling costs.

You can upgrade to a smart thermostat, which has the ability to discern your schedule and preferences and ensure the room is set to your comfort level when you get home. This means that it turns off your air conditioner when nobody’s home, which effectively saves energy. Also, a smart thermostat can detect a dirty filter and will let you know when it needs cleaning or replacement.

Choose LED lights.

Are you still using incandescent light bulbs? If so, then it’s a high  time to switch to LED lights. Why? Because incandescent bulbs are extremely inefficient. Only about 10 to 15 percent of the electricity that they use is converted into light. The rest becomes waste energy.

On the other hand, LED lights are the most energy-efficient lighting option currently available. They use 75 percent less energy, last 25 times longer, and run much cooler than standard incandescent bulbs. Sure, they cost a little more up front, but soon pay for themselves in energy savings.

Clean your filters regularly.

Your air filters collect dirt and debris, keeping them from being circulated in your home and getting into your HVAC system’s internal parts. Running your air conditioner with clogged filters does not only compromise its efficiency, but it also can lead to serious damage to the unit. You don’t want your system to die on you during the heat of summer! It is recommended that filters are cleaned or replaced at least once per month.

A clean filter gives you fresh, clean air, and a better performing air conditioner. By making sure your system runs with a clean filter, you’re saving as much as 15 percent on your monthly energy costs.

Close your blinds.

Another way to cut down on your energy costs is to close your blinds or drapes in the daytime to eliminate the greenhouse effect of the sun. Walls take the full force of the sun’s heat, so consider installing good drapes or shades for the windows on these walls and keep them closed. North-facing windows let in relatively even, natural light, producing little glare and almost no unwanted summer heat gain. You can leave these shades open to receive natural light into your house without heating things up.

Try to spend more time in your home’s lowest floor.

If you have a home with multiple levels, consider spending most of your time on the lowest floor. This is because heat naturally rises, which makes the rooms on the upper floors much warmer. There are days when you don’t even have to turn your AC on altogether and choose to open the windows instead.

Save on Energy with Four Seasons Air Specialists

Perhaps the single most effective way to minimize your energy consumption is to have a qualified technician look after your HVAC system. Professional maintenance ensures your air conditioner works at peak efficiency. The tune-up includes system cleaning, lubricating, refrigerant checking and filling (if needed) and other preventive maintenance steps.

You can have all these steps and more by booking a maintenance schedule with one of our teams of NATE-certified heating and cooling experts. As your reliable Shoreview AC repair maintenance company, you are guaranteed to receive top-notch workmanship.