With the hottest days of the year ahead, a lot of homeowners want to know how they can stay comfortable while still saving money on their utility bills. Here are just a few tips that will increase your comfort, maximize efficiency, and help you save energy.
- Check your Air Filters
This is one of the easiest methods to save energy and money. The filters in your HVAC system help the air flow more efficiently. Over time, they trap dirt, debris, pollen, and pet dander. As they clog up, less and less air can pull through the filters, and your system has to work harder. So during peak usage, check your filters every month and replace them as necessary. - Shade the A/C Unit
Air in the shade is cooler than air in the sun. Common sense, but few people use this knowledge to make their air conditioning run more efficiently. If you place trees and shrubs that will cast shade on your outdoor unit, it won’t have to work as hard to cool the air. That said, you do want to keep shrubs and plants about two feet away from the A/C unit for better airflow. And make sure you check for and clear away any debris that has collected on the outside. - Keep it Green
While we are thinking about the outside, another thing you want to avoid is landscaping with a lot of rock and cement—especially on the south and west sides of your home. It might look modern, fresh and easy to maintain, but it will radiate heat and increase the temperature around your home. - Consider a Programmable Thermostat
If you haven’t gotten one already, now is the time to jump on board. You do not have to try to remember to tweak the thermostat every time you leave for the office and return home. A programmable thermostat will give you several options to regulate the temperature in your home so you can run your system more efficiently. Or you might even upgrade to a smart thermostat that you can access with your phone, even when you are away from home. - Keep Heat Away from the Thermostat
Another similar tip is to make sure you don’t place heat-producing appliances and electronics near your thermostat. Even things like lamps and televisions will put off heat and throw of the readings on your system. The air conditioning will kick on more often, even if the rest of the house is at a cooler temperature. - Don’t Dial it Down
Every degree you go below 78 will increase your energy usage by about 8 percent. So if you pay about $100 per month for heating and air conditioning, you can save about eight dollars for every degree you stay above 78. - Weatherize Your Windows
The last thing you need is to be cooling the entire neighborhood. So to make sure the cool air stays in and the warm air stays out, check the seals around your windows and doors. To prevent air leaks, replace your weather-stripping and caulking. And if you have really old windows, you might think about getting replacements that provide better insulation.
These are all quick and easy tips you can use to improve the efficiency of air conditioning in San Jose, CA home. For more tips, contact the HVAC experts at Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning. This family owned and operated company has been serving in the Bay Area since 2002. We can provide the highest quality materials, equipment, and advice for energy efficient air conditioning. Call (669) 219-8957 to schedule a repair or visit 1045 N 10th St San Jose, CA 95112.
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