When the temperature outside starts to rise, you’re likely to blast your AC to keep your home cool. If you spend a lot of time indoors, you may also find yourself using other electric appliances that increase your electric bill. According to U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), more than half of the energy used in homes is for heating and air conditioning.
If you’re looking for ways to cut down on utility costs, there are a few simple things you can do without sacrificing your comfort. A few small changes can result in big savings on your next home electric bill.
Use Energy-Efficient Air Conditioner
You’re likely to use the AC most of the time your home in the summer, and it can be helpful to use an energy-efficient central air conditioner to save costs. If you’re looking for AC installation in Miami, consider a company that offers top brands and models and works with expert technicians.
An experienced AC installation company will help you improve efficiency and comfort while reducing your electric costs. By conducting a home energy audit and identifying hot spots in your home, they can find equipment that’s the right size to ensure that the AC is a good fit for your home. When you choose an efficient air conditioner designed for maximum performance, your electric bill is likely to drop, saving you from unexpected costs.
Prioritize HVAC System Maintenance
Maintaining your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system throughout the year is crucial as lack of care could reduce its efficiency and drive up your electric bill. If your HVAC system hasn’t been maintained in a long time, it can accumulate dirt and dust while working harder to produce the same output. This will restrict the airflow in your home and raise your electric bill.
Switch to a Smart Lighting System
Your old lighting system could be consuming high amounts of electricity, resulting in high costs. Switching to a smart lighting system, such as LED lighting, will save energy and save you money. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LED bulbs use at least 75 percent less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent lighting.
Consider a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat allows you to set the temperature for each time of the day. When you analyze the weather outside to set your thermostat carefully, you can find the perfect balance between comfort and saving money. For example, you can adjust the temperature when you’re not at home, allowing your AC to rest and produce less air when the space is not in use.
Avoid Leaving Appliances on Standby
Leaving your appliances on standby when not in use can hike your energy costs. When the cost of leaving multiple appliances on standby mode adds up, they can accumulate to surprisingly high annual costs. Some devices you should turn off or unplug when they’re not being used are the TV, portable fans, phone charger, and gaming systems.
When you get familiar with the different ways to reduce energy consumption in your home, take some time to rethink your habits, and your wallet will thank you!