The dog days of summer can bite you in the pocketbook. But you can save about $100 a year with some quick and simple steps, according to Angie’s List (www.angieslist.com), the nation’s leading provider of consumer ratings on local service providers.
A recent Angie’s List poll showed that nearly 90 percent of homeowners want to lower their cooling bills this summer. Yet about a third of them admit they don’t follow manufacturer recommendations to service their air conditioning units every year – one of the best ways to ensure maximum cooling efficiency. And few were anxious to crank down the a/c when the heat starts to build – another easy way to save.
10 tips to save money but still beat the heat:
1. Central air conditioning units should be inspected and serviced yearly by a professional. Average cost: between $50 and $125. Without the yearly checkup, a/c units lose about 5 percent efficiency each year.
2. Clean and replace a/c filters frequently (check the filter once a month). Clogged filters will make your system work harder than it should.
3. Each degree you dial below 78 increases your energy consumption by about 8 percent. assuming a monthly bill of $100, means you’ll save $8 a degree.
4. Consider investing in a programmable thermostats and turn the a/c off or up when you’re away.
5. Don’t place lamps, TV sets, or other heat producing appliances near your thermostat. The thermostat senses the heat causing the air conditioner to run longer than necessary.
6. Seal air leaks with caulking and weatherstripping. Add insulation around air conditioning ducts.
7. Switch ceiling fans to run counterclockwise and push cool air down. Running a ceiling fan half the day costs about $1.50 a month; the a/c costs $25.
8. Central air units placed in proper shading can be more efficient. Keep plants, shrubs, and other landscaping about two to four feet away from your outdoor unit to ensure adequate airflow.
9. If your unit is older than 15 years old, consider replacing it with an energy-efficient model. Take advantage of federal tax credits and price wars. Be sure the new unit fits your home’s needs for maximum efficiency.
10. Don’t landscape solely with rock, cement, or asphalt on south or west sides of your home unless they are shaded. Otherwise, the hardscape will increase temps around the house and radiate heat.
