How to save on your cooling bill

Have you seen the forecast? It looks simply summery outside and we aren’t complaining here at The Blehm Group, not one bit. If you are looking for some ways to save on your cooling bill this summer, we have 5 tips that will help save you some money and some energy in the process.

1. Run your AC efficiently
   Try to set your AC thermostat to as high a temperature as is comfortable. You can even increase the temperature when you are out or asleep. This has the potential of decreasing your cooling bill by 10% depending on your provider. 
2. Use a ceiling fan or oscillating fan 
   Using a ceiling fan or oscillating fan can make you feel 6 or 7 degrees cooler thanks to a wind-chill effect. This will be especially helpful if you are abiding by the previous tip of setting your AC higher than normal. The fan doesn’t actually cool a room down, but it does make it more comfortable. Just make sure that you don’t leave the fan on when you leave or you waste energy.
3. Maintain your AC/cooling system
   Dirty air filters are huge energy wasters. If you properly care for your AC unit and cooling system, you can feel confident that your cooling system is working properly and cooling down your home efficiently therefore saving you money.
4. Avoid hot activities during the day 
   Try to avoid doing any activities that heat your home when the temperatures are the hottest during the day. Things like using the oven, dishwasher, doing laundry, or even watching TV can all generate a ton of heat. Saving these activities for after dark can help avoid unnecessary heat build-up and keep your home cooler. If you must do these things during the day, try to use the microwave, grill outside, air-dry clothes, and keep TV watching to a minimum.
5. Close blinds and shades
   Simply closing the blinds and shades can drastically lower the temperature of your home during the day. You prevent solar heat gain from the shades and in turn can reduce heat build up significantly, especially when combined with the previous tips.