Install Insulation
Installing insulation is generally one of the best things
you can do to reduce your home's cooling costs. That's because up to 20% of
your home's air conditioning can be lost to the great outdoors. If you plan to
insulate your home, check with your local utility for the recommended
insulation levels.
Do Your Homework
Important factors to consider when shopping for a new air
conditioner are: size of the area that needs to be cooled, climate, your home's
construction, sun exposure, wiring, insulation and the number and location of
windows. Once you have this information you should consider all the types
available and determine which will cool your home for the lowest cost.
The SEER rating on the EnergyGuide label can also help you.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. All new central air
conditioners have a minimum SEER rating of 10. Consider buying a
high-efficiency model with a SEER rating of 11 or higher (a SEER of 16 can save
up to 40% on your cooling costs). Whole house fans, evaporative coolers, heat
pumps, room air conditioners and central air conditioning systems all have
their pros and cons, so do a little research before buying.
Shade Your House
Use landscaping, awnings and overhangs to provide shade
around the outside of your home. A shaded house is easier to cool than one in
direct sunlight. There are even white reflective roof paints available that can
reduce air conditioning costs.
Set It & Leave It
The best temperature for your air conditioner's thermostat
is 78°F or higher. If you don't want to come home to a hot house, consider
purchasing a programmable thermostat.
Use Fans Instead
A central air conditioning system can use up to 10 kilowatt
hours per hour to operate. In contrast, a fan (ceiling or portable) may use one
kilowatt hour per hour to operate. That's a potential savings of up to 90% on
those days when a fan will do the trick.
Turn It Off
If you plan to leave for a few minutes or more, turn your
fan off. Running it while you're not there is a definite energy waster.
Maintain It
Proper maintenance helps your air conditioner run more
efficiently. Replace disposable filters or clean permanent filters every few
months during the cooling season. It's a good idea to have your entire system
checked annually by a qualified air conditioning contractor.
Clean Its Coils
Clean the outside condenser coils at the beginning and the
end of the air conditioning season. Clean the coils with diluted detergent,
then rinse them off.
Keep It As Cool As Possible
Install your air conditioner out of the direct sunlight.
Also, shade it beneath an awning or patio cover.
Watch Those Windows
During the cooler morning and evening hours, open your
windows and use the outside air to cool your home. In the summer or during the
heat of the day, close the draperies and blinds to keep the warm sun out.
Consider installing reflective films or solar shade screens on windows with the
greatest exposure to the summer sun (this can help keep your furniture and
carpet from fading too).
Keep The Vents Clear
An obstructed vent, inside or outside your home, wastes
both energy and money. Trim shrubbery that might effect outside vents.
Keep It In
First, keep your doors and windows closed when you have the
air conditioner on. Second, weatherstrip and caulk your doors and windows to
seal in cool air.
