Control Those High Summer Energy Bills!

Summer is fast approaching and in New York, it can get pretty hot. Some homeowners dread summertime because of the need to constantly run their cooling system. Below you will find some tips to help control your summer cooling costs and keep your hard earned money in your pocket.

Skip using appliances that produce heat until the sun goes down.The added heat from the stove or dryer will make it hotter in your home causing you to feel the need to lower the AC temperature. When you take a shower, use the exhaust fan to pull the steam from the bathroom. When you reduce humidity, you increase comfort.

Change the AC filter on a regular basis. A unit with a clean filter will run far more efficiently than one with a dirty filter. Keeping the filter clean and free of dust and debris will allow for good air movement within the system.

Invest in a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature according to your schedule. Try keeping the temperature set at 78 when you are home and raise it when you are away. Raising the thermostat temperature when cooling is not needed can reduce your energy bull by up to 15 percent.

Regular maintenance pays off. Make sure you stay up to date with the maintenance requirements of your HVAC unit. Keep the outside unit clean and free of leaves and other yard debris to avoid damage to the system.

Use the ceiling fan. Fans circulating the air in your home can make you feel much cooler. Fans don’t necessarily lower the temperature in the room but they do make it more comfortable. Make sure you remember to turn the fan off when no one is using the room to save energy costs.

Close the curtains. When you allow sunlight into your home, it is going to get hotter. Consider replacing your curtains with solar curtains that are made to block out sunlight.

Consider the age of your unit. If it is more than 15 years old, you should think about replacing it with a more energy efficient unit.

If you put these tips to use, you are sure to see a significant decrease in your energy bill this summer.