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How to save money on air conditioning bills?

woman smiling looking at AC bill
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According to the U.S. Department of Energy, Americans spend a whopping $29 billion per year on electricity costs associated with air conditioning. Here in North Carolina, with our hot, humid summers, we’re no strangers to the pain that comes with seeing our energy bills climb as the mercury soars. The good news is, there are several easy ways to nudge your AC usage down a bit. Yellow Dot has been assisting Raleigh-Durham homeowners with getting the most out of their HVAC systems for over 20 years, and we can help you reduce your AC costs this summer with our expert tips and quality service.

10 tips for how to keep your house cool in the summer:

It is possible to keep your house cool in summer naturally, without running your AC at full blast. Many of these tips are free or low-cost, and, especially when used together, can make your home feel much more comfortable.

  1. Use a programmable thermostat: A programmable thermostat will save money on your air conditioning bills by automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re not home or when you’re sleeping.
  2. Keep your air conditioning unit clean: A dirty air conditioning unit reduces its efficiency and increases your energy bills. Make sure to clean or replace your air filters regularly and keep the outdoor unit free of debris.
  3. Use ceiling fans: Ceiling fans circulate cool air throughout your home and hasten sweat evaporation on your skin, reducing the need for air conditioning.
  4. Close your blinds and curtains: Closing your blinds and curtains during hot summer days will keep your home cooler and reduce the need for air conditioning.
  5. Use a dehumidifier: High humidity makes your home feel warmer than it actually is. Using a dehumidifier will make your home feel more comfortable at warmer temperatures.
  6. Install window awnings: Window awnings can reduce solar heat gain by up to 65 percent on south-facing windows and 77 percent on west-facing windows. For best results, choose awnings in light colors that reflect more sunlight.
  7. Add reflective window film: This film can be applied to windows to reduce heat gain and keep your rooms cooler.
  8. Seal and insulate your home: A home that’s properly sealed and insulated prevents cool air from escaping, which can have a big impact on your AC bills.
  9. Close off areas of your home you don’t use as often: There’s no point in cooling rooms you don’t spend time in. Close the doors and air vents for areas you don’t need to cool.
  10. Avoid using heat-generating appliances during the hottest part of the day: Stoves, dryers, ovens, and dishwashers all give off heat. Use them in the early morning or at night to keep your home more comfortable.

Related Content: Should You Replace a Furnace and AC at the Same Time?

Air conditioning service when you need it most

If you’ve tried these tips and your house is still too warm, or if it seems like your AC is struggling to keep your house cool, it might be time to call the pros at Yellow Dot Heating & Air Conditioning. A faulty or inefficient AC will impact your AC bill. We can inspect your AC, perform any necessary air conditioner maintenance, and even install a new air conditioner if your old one is too far gone. Call us at (919) 925-4235 or request service online.