ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) – Comfort doesn’t have to come at a cost. There are things you can do to conserve cooler air inside your home.
During the summer months, air conditioning units typically work extra hard to keep homes cool, and cranking up the AC can lead to a noticeable increase in electric bills.
Some easy ways you can save money are by closing your blinds and keeping your windows closed. When you leave you’re home for the day, set the thermostat higher. The U.S. Department of Energy says this can save you as much as 10% on your electric bill.
Experts also suggest you use either ceiling fans or box fans to increase air ventilation inside your home. A fan can make temperatures feel six to seven degrees cooler.
You should also try your best to avoid using your stove or oven on particularly hot days and use the microwave instead.
The U.S. Department of Energy says you should also keep your air conditioner’s fan speed on high unless it’s humid outside.
It’s also important to keep AC units well-maintained. Failure to maintain your filter regularly can cause the air conditioning unit to work harder, using more energy and costing you more money. It’s recommended you clean filters every 30 to 90 days, especially if you have pets at home.
