lowering ac costs

Stay Cool and Save Cash: Proven Strategies for Lowering AC Costs

Summer in West Sacramento is fantastic, but it often comes with soaring energy bills and potential air conditioning problems. Don’t let the heat bring you down! Here are some tips from Southport Heating & Air to keep your home cool, comfortable, and budget-friendly this season. For more assistance, call us at (916) 606-3076.

Block the Sun's Fury: Close Curtains and Blinds Strategically:

Rooms that face the sun during the hottest part of the day can become extremely heated in the summer. If your thermostat is near those rooms, it will read the temperature and continue to cool the entire house. During peak sunlight hours, close blinds or draw curtains to reduce the amount of effort required of your air conditioner.

Increase Your Comfort with Ceiling Fans and Strategic Thermostat Settings

Think a ceiling fan is just for aesthetics? Think again! When paired with a slightly higher thermostat setting (around 78 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal), a ceiling fan can create a delightful windchill effect, making you feel cooler without blasting the AC. Remember to switch your fan’s direction to push cool air down during the summer months

Small Adjustments, Big Savings: Optimizing Your Thermostat

Every degree counts! Setting your thermostat a few degrees higher can make a big difference in your energy consumption. Even a small bump from 72 degrees to 78 degrees can translate to an 18% decrease in your cooling costs. To maximize savings, consider investing in a programmable thermostat. You can set it to automatically adjust the temperature when you’re away or asleep, ensuring peak comfort and efficiency

Avoid Activities That Heat Up Your Home

The oven, dishwasher, and clothes dryer are all heat generators. During the hottest part of the day, try substituting these appliances with cooler alternatives. Opt for the microwave instead of the oven, grill outdoors instead of using the stovetop, and air-dry clothes whenever possible. Save those energy-hungry appliances for cooler evening hours

Clear the Path for Cool Air: Maintain Unobstructed Vents

Keep your vents and registers clear to ensure proper airflow. Check for furniture, carpets, or other obstructions that may be preventing cold air from circulating properly. Restricted airflow encourages your air conditioner to work harder, resulting in increased energy bills and less comfort.

Breathe Easy and Save Money: Change Your Air Filter Regularly

A dirty air filter is like a clogged straw – it makes it harder for your AC to function properly. A clogged filter reduces airflow, decreases efficiency, and increases the risk of needing repairs. Replace your air filter once a month during the summer to ensure optimal performance, keep energy bills low, and extend the lifespan of your AC unit.

Preventative Care is Key: Schedule Regular AC Maintenance

Just like your car, your air conditioner needs regular maintenance to stay in top shape. Scheduling a professional checkup before the summer heat arrives is a wise investment. During a maintenance visit, a qualified technician will clean your indoor unit, clear debris from the outdoor unit, and ensure everything is functioning properly. This proactive approach can help prevent costly breakdowns and keep your AC running smoothly all season long.

Signs You Might Need a New AC Unit

If you had to call for air conditioning repairs multiple times last summer and you start to notice problems and high energy bills as this summer begins, consider whether it’s time to throw in the towel and buy a new air conditioner. While replacing your AC is an investment, a new ENERGY STAR®-certified model can deliver significantly lower cooling costs (up to 30%!) for years to come.

Don’t wait until the heat wave hits! If your AC is acting up or your energy bills are climbing, contact Southport Heating and Air. Our experienced technicians will promptly diagnose the issue and provide honest advice on whether repair or replacement is the best course of action. Your comfort is our top priority, and we’re here to help you stay cool and save money all summer long!

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