Save Money When Turning on Your AC This Season
Is your air conditioner ready to wake from its winter slumber? With warm weather comes the need to turn on the air conditioner. It's time to get your home cool and comfortable, but you should remember that running an air conditioning system can be expensive. Here are some tips to help you save money when turning on your AC for the first time this season.
Check for Leaks
Leaky ductwork is one of the most common causes of energy waste when using an air conditioner. Every year, thousands of homeowners lose money due to leaking ducts that cause their systems to work harder than they should. Hold a smoke pencil or a piece of lit incense against each joint in your ductwork to check for leaks. If there is a leak, you will see smoke from it. Make sure to seal any leaks that you find right away with foil tape or mastic sealant.
Change Your Filters Frequently
Another way to save money when turning on your AC is to change your filters frequently. Dirty filters can cause your system to run inefficiently, leading to higher energy bills and decreased comfort levels in your home. Most manufacturers recommend changing your filters at least once every three months, but if you have pets or allergies, you may want to change them more often than that. A short guide to air filters will help you save money on energy bills.
Set Your Thermostat Properly
When using an air conditioner, setting the thermostat is key for saving money and maintaining comfort levels in your home. Set your thermostat as high as possible during hot weather without sacrificing comfort levels – around 78 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for most households.
Invest in Smart Features
Smart features such as Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats can help you save even more money by allowing you to control your HVAC system remotely from anywhere in the world using just a smartphone or tablet device. You can set schedules for when the system turns on and off and adjust temperatures from afar without physically interacting with the thermostat! Investing in smart features helps save money on energy costs and makes controlling your HVAC system much more convenient overall.