As the summer heat intensifies, so does the strain on your air conditioning system. Keeping your home cool without overworking your AC and ending up with huge utility bills can be challenging, but it’s essential for saving energy and money, and reducing wear and tear on your AC system. The last thing you want during a heatwave is an unexpected breakdown that prompts the need for AC repair in Pittsburgh. Here are some practical tips to help you conserve energy during the hot summer weather.
Optimize Your Thermostat Settings
Setting your thermostat to 78°F is a great starting point for maximizing energy efficiency. At this temperature, you can maintain a comfortable indoor environment without overtaxing your AC. For times when you’re not home, consider setting the thermostat even higher.
Investing in a programmable or smart thermostat can significantly enhance your energy savings. These devices allow you to set temperature schedules, ensuring your AC runs only when needed. For example, if you forget to set the temperature higher after leaving for a weekend camping trip, you can change the temperature using your smartphone.
Schedule Regular AC Maintenance
Routine maintenance is crucial for keeping your AC running efficiently. Schedule professional tune-ups with our team once a year for central AC systems and twice a year for heat pumps and mini splits. During these visits, a technician will clean the system, tighten loose parts, check refrigerant levels, and ensure all components are functioning correctly.
In addition to professional maintenance, there are some tasks you can do yourself. Regularly changing or cleaning air filters every 1-3 months is essential. Clogged filters force your AC to work harder, consuming more energy.
Use Fans Strategically
Fans can help you stay cool while saving energy. Ceiling fans can make a room feel several degrees cooler by circulating air, which allows you to set your thermostat a bit higher. Ensure your ceiling fans are rotating counterclockwise during the summer to create a cooling breeze Portable fans are also useful for improving airflow in specific areas. Use them to cool rooms where you spend the most time, reducing the need to lower the thermostat.
Reduce Heat Buildup in Your Home
Minimizing indoor heat generation can make a big difference. Avoid using the oven, stove, or clothes dryer during the hottest parts of the day. Instead, consider grilling outside or using a microwave, which generates less heat, and run the clothes dryer in the morning or evening.
Another tip is to close off unused rooms. By shutting the doors to rooms you don’t use frequently, you can prevent cool air from being wasted in those spaces. Installing blackout curtains or blinds can also help block out the heat from direct sunlight, reducing the amount of work your AC needs to do
Saving energy during a hot summer doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort. Implement these tips for a more comfortable and cost-effective summer, and don’t forget to schedule an AC maintenance appointment with us if you haven’t done so already.
Call the friendly staff at Boehmer Heating & Cooling for exceptional customer service! Schedule AC repair in Pittsburgh, PA with our team today.