Spring is in the air, which means air conditioning season is right around the corner. Luckily, if you strategize carefully, that doesn’t have to equate to hefty electric bills. Here are seven adjustments you can make to your daily living to cut back on energy expenses and save your money for more important things.
Get Your Annual A/C Checkup
After months of sitting dormant, your a/c system requires a thorough inspection before you start using it. A professional will make sure the evaporator coil is clean from weather-related debris and they will ensure every component is operating at maximum efficiency. While you have a professional at your home, have them complete a pressure check to see if any air is leaking out of the ducts. If you are losing air within the ducts, you will want to seal and insulate them to cut your energy consumption by 30%. You will also want to make sure to start out the season with clean air filters.
Open the Windows
The springtime is the perfect time to take advantage of fresh air. It’s not cold enough to require the heater, yet it’s still not warm enough to trigger the a/c. So open up the windows and employ the ceiling fans to help move around the air. If you find the air is humid, you can also turn on bathroom fans to suck it away. Bonus: You can let the natural light pour in and turn off your light switches.
Cook Outside
Not only is grilling outside more fun, it is also a much cheaper way to generate heat for your food versus the oven or stove. So take the party outside and explore some new delicious entrees on the grill. From steaks to chicken to veggies, the options are limitless.
Use Window Treatments
Window treatments not only look pretty and make your home feel more welcoming, they can be an excellent way to reduce your energy usage as the weather warms up. By keeping the curtains drawn during the day, you can keep the heat out, so you won’t have to pay as much to cool down the air. And if a cooler day hits, you can open up the shades to welcome in some natural heat and natural light.
Seal the Windows and Doors
Small leaks in windows and doors are one of the biggest culprits of energy waste out there. While you are paying to cool the air in your home, the warm air from outside is slowly seeping in. You can save an average of 15 percent on your energy bill by taking the time to seal any leaks around the windows and doors.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
As much as you think you can automatically adjust the temperature as needed throughout the day, you get busy and the thermostat is the last thing on your mind. Instead, set up a programmable thermostat. This way, you can make sure the temperature is comfortable when you are home, yet you aren’t paying to keep it this way while you are at work.
Change Your Energy Provider
While you can’t choose who delivers your electricity and natural gas, many states do give you the choice about who supplies the energy. With companies like North American Power, you can choose your own energy provider and receive lower rates without any hassle.
Springtime is one of the most amazing times of the year, and with these tips, you can enjoy it to its fullest instead of worrying about your energy bill.
