Keeping your Florida home comfortable all year round can be a real challenge--and expensive, too. You're not alone if your energy bills have been through the roof lately. But there are some things you can do to help lower your costs. Here are a few energy-saving tips for your home to get you started.
Mind the Thermostat
One of the simplest things you can do to save on energy at home is to be mindful of your thermostat settings. During the day, when it's hottest outside, aim for a temperature around 78 degrees.
Keep your thermostat at 78 degrees or higher. For every degree you raise your thermostat, you can save up to 4% on your energy bill. So, if you keep your AC at 78 degrees instead of 74, you could save up to 16%!
At night, when it's cooler, you can afford to bump the temperature up a few degrees. Every degree counts, so don't be afraid to experiment until you find what works best for you.
Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances
If your air conditioner is more than ten years old, chances are it's not as energy efficient as it could be. Newer models use much less electricity than their older counterparts, so it's worth considering an upgrade if your unit is on its way out.
Ceiling fans use less energy than air conditioners, so running a few fans in strategic places can help keep your whole house cool without running up your energy bill.
The same goes for other appliances in your home, like your refrigerator, dishwasher, and washer and dryer. When shopping for new appliances, look for the Energy Star label to ensure you get the most out of your energy-saving home improvements.
Maintain Your Heating and Cooling System
Change your air filter monthly. A dirty air filter makes your AC work harder (and uses more energy), so make sure to change it every month during the summer. You'll be surprised how much of a difference it can make.
Get an annual tune-up. Like any other machinery, air conditioners need regular maintenance to function their best. Scheduling a yearly tune-up for your AC unit will not only help it run more efficiently but will also help extend its lifespan.
Insulate Your Home
Another way to keep cool air in and hot air out is to ensure your home is well-insulated. Check around doors and windows for cracks or gaps and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping. You can also add insulation to your attic or crawl spaces to improve your home's energy efficiency.
Upgrade Your Window Treatments
Keeping the sun out is one of the best ways to keep your house cool in the summer. Close the shades or blinds during the hottest part of the day and open them up again when it starts to cool down outside.
Find A Trusted HVAC Specialist in Edgewater, Florida
There's no doubt about it: home energy-saving in Florida takes some work—and money. But by following these tips, you can lower your energy bills without sacrificing comfort. Contact the Advanced Air team online or at 386-260-2330 for help putting some of these ideas into practice today.