From Guest Blogger Lizzie: Four Ways Your Air Conditioner Can Help Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

The warm weather is nearly upon us and that means its time to think of ways to beat the heat. If using a fan and opening the windows isn’t enough for you, you’ll probably join the ranks of those who install air conditioners every year. You’ll welcome the cool air, but could do without the electric bill. Take advantage of four tips that can make your home more energy efficient when you are using your air conditioner this season.

Combine Your Approaches for Cooling

Don’t rely on your air conditioner alone to make your home cooler. On those warmest of days, close your blinds or shades early in the morning and keep them closed until the sun goes down. You’ll actually keep your home cooler. You can also enlist the aid of ceiling fans in order to circulate the air more efficiently once your air conditioner is running.

Hold the Temperature Steady

Rather than turn your air conditioner on early in the morning and off at night, keep it running. Set the thermostat at a comfortable temperature and maintain conditions in your home. Don’t make your air conditioner work too hard. Make sure your windows and doors are closed tightly and that you do not have any areas where your cool air is escaping.

Choose an Air Conditioner that is the Right Size

Make sure your air conditioner is of an adequate size to meet the needs of your home. A central air unit from a place like Comfortable Home Systems will provide cooling for the entire home and can even be applied to zones in order to cut energy use. If you are using air conditioners that are placed in your windows, consider a larger unit for the most substantial areas of the house and smaller units in the bedrooms. Regardless of which route you decide to take in either a central or a window unit, make sure you choose energy efficient models.

Consider Alternatives that Can Reduce the Use of Air Conditioners

Heat pumps remove heat from the home while evaporative coolers are effective in dry areas. While you may not be able to rely on these methods for home cooling, you may find that they can supplement the use of your air conditioner and actually make your home more energy efficient.

There is no way around using more electricity when it is air conditioning season. However, you can try different strategies in order to keep your costs under control. The next time the heat sets in, you’ll be prepared and you don’t have to break the bank.