How to Save Money While Running Your Air Conditioning

HVAC is an integral part of any home to keep comfortable temperatures in extreme weather. It doesn't have to be expensive though, and here are some ways in which you can save money while it runs.

Get a Home Energy Audit Done

This is especially important for older homes, which may be leaking the cold air inside to the outside through poorly insulated attics, and small openings in the windows and doors if they don't shut well. Your local contractor or utility provider can send a certified home energy rater who will check for leaks and recommend the best way for you to save energy in your home.

Alternatively, perform an audit yourself by standing outside and placing your hand around the doors and windows. If you can feel any cold air escaping, add caulk and insulation where necessary.

Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

These can be set to automatically regulate cooling and heating when you're not home, saving you money in the process. You can even adjust their settings remotely using an app or voice commands on your mobile phone, making them a great option over traditional thermostats.

Close Your Blinds When It's Hottest

This will have the double effect of not heating your thermostat up which will make it turn on more often as well as keeping the sun from heating up the house itself. You can additionally use a fan which will help cool down the house efficiently. A smart fan can even follow a schedule you set to start and stop at certain times.

Place Your Thermostat on the Right Wall

If the thermostat is set up right next to a hot window that is hit by the sun and hot wind more, for instance, it will start and run more often than necessary because it thinks the room is hotter than it actually is.

Homeowners in the United States can save between 20 and 50 percent on their air conditioning expenses each year by simply purchasing new HVAC units. They can also take additional steps like caulking windows and keeping them closed while air conditioning is being used to conserve the cold air within the house. Saving energy on HVAC in your home comes down to practical measures and if you follow the tips outlined above, you will be fine.