Home cooling costs can really add up in the summer. High temperatures and humidity mean that your air conditioning system has to work harder to keep your home comfortable. In turn, your electricity costs keep rising. While there is nothing you can do about the weather, there are ways you can save money on home cooling costs.
Cover Your Windows
When the sun comes in your windows, it warms the air, making it that much harder for your air conditioner to do its job. One of the easiest things you can do is keep your windows covered. Whether you keep mini-blinds closed, lower the shades, draw the drapes, or close the shutters, it is quite possible to keep the sun, and the heat, out of your home. Sun shades — which are dense window screens— also help.
Install Awnings
Another option to prevent the sun from coming in your windows and warming the air in your home is to install awnings. Focus on the south- and west-facing sides of your home. According to the EPA, awnings will reduce solar heat gain by as much as 65 percent on south-facing windows and 77 percent on windows that face west.
Install Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans also help. Air movement can create an effect that makes a house feel much cooler. According to the Department of Energy, using a ceiling fan reduces the perceived temperature in a room by 4 degrees — that’s 4 degrees your air conditioner doesn’t have to cool.
If your cooling costs are very high, the issue may be with your system. Learn more about McAllister’s solutions for keeping your air conditioning in top shape, or give us a call if you need immediate help. Call us today at 877-216-3505.
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