Lets face it: air conditioning is a must during the summer. The New Jersey summer’s heat and humidity can get very uncomfortable and an air conditioner can often seem to be the only way to save you and your family from the heat. Having to run your central air conditioner 24/7 just to stay comfortably cool can get uncomfortably costly. That being said, there are some easy tricks you can implement right away to keep your AC costs low (and still stay cool).
Check your Windows
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A lot of heat from the sun enters the house through the windows. Might sound obvious, but ensure your windows are actually closed while running the air conditioner. In addition, cover the windows with shades or blinds to block the sunlight from heating rooms. Then, look outside at the areas surrounding your windows. Consider planting shrubs around your home to absorb heat and provide shade. As a bonus, if you plant them around your air conditioner unit then you can also improve the efficiency of your HVAC unit.
Raise the Temperature
You’re probably thinking that’s a crazy suggestion. But when you’re not home, or at night, raise the temperature a few degrees. Using a programmable thermostat to schedule the temperature is an easy way to manage the settings. The Department of Energy states that homeowners can save anywhere from 5 to 15 percent on air conditioning bills just by raising the temperature a few degrees.
Repair or Replace your Air Conditioner
The efficiency of your air conditioner can depend on how much maintenance it receives. Like a car, a well maintained machine will run the best. Keeping the filter clean and dirt free will allow the cold air to flow through more effectively. Get your unit regularly maintained by an HVAC professional to ensure it’s running safely.
If you clean your air conditioner regularly and it still doesn’t properly cool your home, it may be time to invest in a new unit. Rising utility bills can often be a signal that your AC is working too hard to maintain the programmed temperatures and can be a sure sign that replacement is needed. The newest air conditioners, like Carrier machines, run at a highly efficient level that will actually end up saving you money in the long run.
Tailoring the Right Blend of Heating and Cooling Products for New Jersey Residents
If you are interested in buying a new air conditioner, there is no better business than Princeton Fuel Oil. Whether you are upgrading an existing system or are building a new home, PFO will tailor the right blend of heating and cooling products—giving your home and business ultimate comfort all year long. From heat pumps to thermostats to ventilators and more, turn to the your Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer, PFO for your state-of-the-art system.