It’s summertime in Texas! The team at AC Pros hopes you find time to relax with friends and family, while also taking in the beautiful sunny days. On days when it gets a bit too sunny, make sure to take the opportunity to jump in a pool or bask in the cool breeze your air conditioner provides.
Your air conditioning can help to take the edge off those long hot months we have here in Austin—but its energy usage can sneak up on you. Cooling costs comprise about 13 percent of the average family’s energy spending per year, according to ENERGY STAR®. For that reason, many Austin customers want tips for reducing cooling costs.
Luckily, there are many quick, easy ways to manage your energy use during the hottest time of the year. Just find a few that work well with your home needs. Then, incorporate them into your daily routine.
Open Some Windows
On milder Texas days, you can switch off your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system and open a few windows instead. On hotter days, we recommend you wait until the evening or night when the temperature drops before turning off your air conditioner.
BBQ Anyone?
Whenever you make meals using your stovetop or oven during the summertime in Austin, TX, it heats up your kitchen. For this reason, you’re more likely to run your AC when you might not need it. Instead, take advantage of your outdoor grill or barbecue.
Put Your Fans to Work this Summer
Fans are an excellent way to fill in for your central air system on temperate days. Unlike your Air conditioning system, fans use considerably less electricity, ultimately saving you money. In order to get the most out of your fans, place them in front of windows or cooler areas of your home like the basement, and use them to funnel air into other parts of your home.
Keep Cool in the Shade
Heat gain coming through your windows can rapidly raise the temperature in living areas. In order to minimize its effects you can get some protection from blinds or curtains. Even when your AC system is running, with the help of shades you can prevent it from overworking itself.
Insulate to Stay Cool
Don’t let the cool air get away from you! Gaps in your windows panes, thin walls, and spaces under your doors allow air to escape. That means your AC will need to cycle more to maintain proper temperature. Insulation, door sweeps, and caulk are your friends. You can also have an AC Pros specialist perform an energy assessment. Using thermal technology, he or she can pinpoint hot spots that need attention.
Upgrade Your Thermostat
Programmable and smart thermostats are an effective way to reduce your energy use. You can program slots for off-times during the day, like when you’re asleep or away at work. Smart thermostats use sensors to learn your habits, perfectly balancing comfort and efficiency. Wi-Fi thermostats connect to your smartphone. You can control it from home or away, and receive detailed energy data to help you save.
HVAC Maintenance and Duct Cleaning
Replace your filter each month to avoid ventilation problems that overwork the internal parts. Additionally, schedule seasonal maintenance visits and have your air ducts cleaned when necessary. This will increase the lifespan of your AC system and protect you from surprise breakdowns that need repair.
Call Us Today!
Looking for AC installation, repair, or maintenance? AC Pros has a team of certified experts on standby when you need us. Call our Austin, TX office at 512-550-7422 or request service online.