As the hot summer weather arrives in Boston, it’s safe to assume that you’ll rely on your air conditioner to keep you cool.
While your AC does a good job keeping you and your home cool, there’s something to remember: it can cost you a lot of money to run your unit.
Fortunately, there are many ways to save money on your energy bill this summer. Here are some ideas to experiment with:
1. Prevent Air Loss
You may not realize it, but you could be losing cool air to the outside of your home. And not just when you open your doors.[i]
Search your home for any gaps that are letting cool air out and warm air in. For example, you’re likely to find these around your doors and windows. Once you seal them up, your AC doesn’t have to run as much to keep your home cool, which saves you money.
2. Proper Maintenance of Your AC
It doesn’t matter if you have central AC or a ductless system, it’s critical that you get into the habit of maintaining your HVAC system. Without this, your system could lose some of its efficiency, which costs you money over the summer months.
For example, clean the outside condenser and cut back any vegetation before summer arrives.[ii]
3. Upgrade Your Insulation
This is particularly important in older Boston homes that may not have the same level of energy-efficient insulation as newer builds.
You can’t see it happening, but your home loses a lot of air in areas that are poorly insulated or not insulated at all. Check your entire home from problem areas, paying close attention to your attic, basement, and crawl space.
4. Use a Programmable Thermostat
For $200 or less, you can upgrade to a programmable thermostat that’s designed to enhance your comfort and lower your cooling bill.
There are many ways to use it to your advantage, such as by raising your home’s temperature by a couple of degrees when you’re at work during the day. You can then set it to automatically adjust to a cooler temperature when you arrive home, thus keeping you comfortable.
5. Don’t Rely Solely on Your AC
Yes, there will be times when you have no choice but to run your AC if you want to stay cool. However, there are other options available to you, such as opening your windows and using ceiling fans.
If you can cool your home without air conditioning, look into doing so. The cost savings make it well worth the effort.
If You Need HVAC Help – Boston Standard Company
Many people look forward to the fun and excitement associated with the summer season. However, when your electric bill arrives, it’s easy for your good time to turn sour.
If you’re seeking ways to save money on your energy bill this summer, experiment with one or more of the ideas above. Also, don’t hesitate to contact us for professional guidance and advice. We’re happy to visit your home and help you make changes for the better.
Recent Comments