Lower Your Electricity Bill with These AC Hacks
This summer is predicted to be hot, humid, and sweaty. But while you might be tempted to shutter indoors with the AC cranked, this is guaranteed to earn you a high electricity bill. Not to mention, there’s a chance that we may be facing an electricity supply issue this summer. Which could mean blackouts. Thankfully, we’ve got some hacks to keep cool without running your AC non-stop. And, how you can find cheap electricity rates.
AC Hack #1: Cooling Fan Hacks
If you have a ceiling fan, you know it’s your best friend for staying cool. First, make sure to set it to spin counterclockwise to blow across you. A fan works by evaporating the sweat on your skin to help lower your body temperature. However, a fan won’t lower the actual temperature of your home significantly. So, when you leave, turn them off.
For standing or box fans, get two. Set up one so that it’s blowing air out of a window during the day. At night, turn the fan so that it blows cool night air into your room. Have another directed at you to cool you off. You can also place a bowl of ice behind this fan. It will pull air over the cold ice and help you feel cool.
AC Hack #2: Window Treatments
Whether you’re in a home or apartment, knowing how to treat your windows can help you stay cool.
Curtains help keep out the sun’s heat, especially for windows facing south or west. So, during the day, keep your windows covered. But their material matters most. Insulated cellular shades, drapes, or window quilts are great but those with reflective backing work even better. Either way, these methods can help lower your AC cost by about 30%.
If you don’t have AC, open your windows at night. By ventilating your home, particularly upper floors, the air circulation will help to cool your home.
AC Hack #3: Regular Maintenance Hacks
If you have to use your AC, knowing how to keep it running efficiently will help your home stay cool and lower energy costs.
Whether it’s a window unit or HVAC, changing its air filters will keep your unit running its best. Dirt and dust clogged filters prevent air from moving through it. Change or clean filters at least once a month and you can save up to 15% on your energy costs.
If you have central AC, don’t close off rooms or block off vents in your home while your HVAC is running. This can unbalance air flow; some rooms may over-cool, some may get hotter. It can also freeze over your AC unit. Leave all room doors and vents open to ensure the best air flow.
AC Hack #4: Get a Smart Thermostat
Get smart about controlling your AC. ENERGY STAR smart thermostats will save you an average of 8% a year on heating and cooling bills. These use schedules and sensors to save you money when you’re away and keep you comfortable while you’re home. The best part? You can get a rebate on a smart thermostat from your local PA utility company!
AC Hack #5: Get a better Electricity Rate
These hacks will help keep you cool. But there’s no better way to save on your electricity bills than shopping for a low energy rate. So if you want to compare companies, read reviews, and find the best energy prices there’s only one place to go. Check out https://www.paenergyratings.com today!