5 Unexpected Ways to Save on Cooling Costs

Heating and cooling costs can often account for over 40 percent of a family’s monthly utility bills. This is certainly the case during the dog days of summer.

However, there may be ways to bring down your cooling costs that you hadn’t even thought of. Below are five proven and unexpected strategies for lowering cooling costs.

1. Replacing Your Air Filters

The air filters are what keep the air running through your HVAC system clean. Without them, your family could be breathing in dust and airborne contaminants that could be harmful to their health. These filters also don’t last forever.

If they become clogged, it could also mean less air running through your system with the same amount of utility cost. Check your filters once a month during the summer and replace them as necessary.

2. Using Your Programmable Thermostat

Another surprising fact is that most families don’t actually take advantage of the programmable features of the thermostat that controls their home’s HVAC system.

Only adjusting the temperature on a case by case basis can lead to you forgetting to turn up the temperature when you don’t need to run the air conditioner. If your house is empty during a portion of the day, program your thermostat to turn the air conditioner off so you can save some money.

3. Shutting the Door

High cooling costs could have even more obvious sources that you simply overlooked. For example, you may leave your front door or windows open sometimes thinking that it will allow in cool air.

This may not be the case. If the outdoor temperature is hotter than the room temperature inside your house, what you’re doing instead is allowing the hot air to move inside. Your air conditioner will have to work much harder to make up the difference.

4. Closing Your Curtains

Another simple option is closing your curtains and blinds when you don’t need them open. While a sunny day outside can be pretty to look at, those sun rays can produce significant heat.

If you allow them in, they will raise the temperature of your home. To bring down your cooling costs, block the sun especially in rooms you’re not using.

5. Using Your Barbecue Grill

The summer is a great excuse to use your outdoor grill to cook delicious food. This also has benefits in regard to your home’s cooling costs. Running the oven or the stovetop can raise the temperature inside your home significantly.

Want some insight on ways to save in your Boston home? Call Atlantic Heating & Air at (617) 566-6990 today, and find out how you can save on cooling costs this month!