It's important to keep temperatures mild for both health and comfort. This is especially true in the middle of summer when temperatures can soar. But, what if your AC isn't up to snuff or you want to consume less energy and save money? These tips from Bloomington Heating & Air can help keep the inside of your home cool without needing to crank the AC lower.
Of course, AC maintenance is important to ensure your air conditioner is working properly and can help you save money with efficient use. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
Upgrade Your Insulation
Insulation is your best friend when it comes to keeping temperatures consistent both in the summertime and winter months. While most homes usually have some sort of insulation, depending on the age of the building, it may be old or not rated high enough. You should have insulation in attics, crawlspaces, and in basements. Insulation is surprisingly affordable and can save you tons every year in lost energy. Additionally, make sure all doors and windows have appropriate weather stripping and caulking.
Cover The Windows
Just like with insulation, covering windows with the appropriate materials is important for sealing in all of that cool air. What you use depends on your goals and budget. Multi-layer window coverings such as drapes give homeowners privacy and help them keep cool air in and hot air out. The thicker the material, the better the insulation. You can also purchase window films that can be installed as an extra layer to windows. If you have the budget and want a long-term solution, consider upgrading windows with thicker panels that block UV rays.
Limit Indoor Heat
Heat comes from a variety of sources. While you can't do anything about the heat coming from the outdoors, you can limit the amount of heat created inside. During the peak of the day, avoid using your stove or oven. Also, take cooler showers or limit the duration of hot showers as this introduces warm, moist air into your home that can make it feel hotter than it actually is. Also, upgrade lightbulbs to energy-efficient CFL or LED bulbs, which produce less heat!
Take Advantage Of Cool Nights
While the days may be hot, temperatures can drop into the 50s and 60s in the Northeast during the summer. Take advantage of nature's cooling system by opening windows and utilizing fans to help the cool air circulate. Just make sure that windows have tight screens with no holes to avoid any unwanted pests. Also, close the windows first thing in the morning when temperatures start to rise again so you can lock in that cool air.
Use Fans Correctly
Speaking of fans, you can use those during the daytime to keep cool as well. Just ensure that the blades are rotating counterclockwise on ceiling fans so that air is being pushed down. You can change the rotation with a switch that is usually located on the base of most ceiling fans. Floor fans can also be helpful in circulating cool air from vents so that it's strategically hitting where you want it to.
Don't Put Off AC Repairs
It might seem counterintuitive, but prioritizing AC repairs is paramount for ensuring your system is running efficiently. When repairs are put off, the system will have to work harder to produce the same cooling effect, causing a rise in utility costs and making it harder to stay cooler indoors. If your AC unit is 10-15 years old, you should consider a new AC installation. Newer models are more effective at cooling homes while requiring less energy to run.