We all enjoy the cool evenings and nights that are so common on the Western Slope, but we also get more than our fair share of hot weather, especially during the day. The result is often a case of sticker shock when you start receiving those summer electric bills. You know your friends at Climate Control Company are great at air conditioner repair, maintenance, and service, but we can also help you save money. Check out this list of 5 easy things to make your summer cooling more efficient.
- Don’t waste money keeping the pets and plants cool
Many families leave the home for several hours each day. In those situations, there’s really no need to keep the goldfish and houseplants cool all day. You should turn the thermostat up while you’re away. Remember, you don’t want to let the house get too hot, or your system will have to work too hard cooling it back down; but turning it up several degrees should be fine.
- Install a programmable thermostat
The best way to handle the situation is by installing a programmable thermostat, or using the one you already have. After you program it to match your schedule, you don’t have to remember to do anything when you leave the house. The thermostat turns itself up automatically, then cools the house before you come home in the evening. If the thermostat is Wi-Fi enabled, you can change the settings using your mobile device. It’s really handy if your schedule changes on short notice.
- Use your ceiling fans (or install them)
We all know how cool a summer breeze can feel, even on a hot day. That’s an example of what’s called the, “feels like temperature,” or what we call the wind-chill during winter. Well using a ceiling fan lowers the feels like temperature in your house. When you feel cooler, you can set the thermostat a couple of degrees higher, even when you are home. Estimates vary, but a 3% savings for each degree higher you set the thermostat is certainly realistic.
- Pay attention to those windows
We know you enjoy those expansive mountain views from your windows, but about 30% of the unwanted heat in your home comes from the sunshine streaming through the glass. Using shades, curtains, and blinds is the best way to prevent your home from turning into a really large greenhouse.
- Get regular air conditioner maintenance
Have you maybe heard us mention this before? I know you sometimes feel like we are beating the proverbial dead horse here, but it’s the simple truth. Regular A/C maintenance and tune ups will improve efficiency. The result is a more comfortable house and lower monthly bills.
For decades you have depended on Climate Control Company for your HVAC Installations, A/C repair, and A/C maintenance in Aspen, Vail and points in between, but we can also help you cut those utility bills down to size. After all, summer on the Western Slope is supposed to be about enjoying the outdoors, not worrying about sticker shock when you open the electric bill.
