10 Easy Tips to Reduce Your Cooling Cost This Summer

The summer season is lots of fun, with abundant sunshine and warm temperatures day and night. But when you are trying to keep your home cool and comfortable, the sunshine and warmth can quickly turn from a friend to an enemy. If you are tired of dealing with higher and higher cooling bills, it is time to take charge. There are things you can do to keep your home cool and comfortable no matter how hot it gets outside.  

Here are 10 simple and inexpensive things you can do to lower your cooling costs all summer long.

1. Change the filters in your air conditioner.

   Clogged or dirty filters will reduce the efficiency of your AC unit and make it work harder than it should.

2. Pull the shades to keep the hot sun out.

   Simply closing the blinds or pulling the curtains shut can reduce your cooling costs and keep your home more comfortable.

3. Clear debris from around your outside air conditioning unit.

   A buildup of leaves and other debris can block outlets and reduce the efficiency of the system.

4. Shade your home with trees.

   Planting trees may not trim your cooling costs this year, but if you choose fast-growing varieties, you can start enjoying the savings sooner than you think.

5. Invest in a programmable thermostat.

   With a programmable thermostat, you can set the temperature higher when you leave for work and have it cool and comfortable when you get home.

6. Check your ductwork.

   Cracks or leaks in your AC ductwork can significantly increase your cooling costs, so check for leaks and other problems.

7. Use your ceiling fans.

   Ceiling fans can produce substantial cooling and save you money on air conditioning. Save the AC for the really hot days, and let your ceiling fans take up the slack.

8. Get an annual tune-up from Romano Bros for your cooling system.

   Getting your air conditioning unit inspected on a regular basis is one of the best ways to improve its efficiency and reduce your cooling costs.

9. Set your thermostat a couple degrees higher.

   Your body probably cannot tell the difference between a 68 and 70 degree home, but your utility bill can. Set your thermostat a few degrees higher and watch the savings pile up.

10. Turn off heat-generating appliances.

    Things like computers and stereo equipment can generate a lot of heat, so turn them off when not in use. The less heat your AC system has to fight, the less energy it needs to consume.

You do not have to live in a sweltering home this summer to reduce your utility bills. A few simple changes can reduce your energy costs and allow you to enjoy the best the summer season has to offer.