Now that the summer heat is officially here, we all want to find ways to keep cool without raising our energy bills. Sure, turning your air conditioning down low will keep it cool but it’s not very energy efficient or wallet-friendly. That’s why Miller’s is sharing a few tips to help you run your unit, without breaking the bank.
- Good air circulation helps maintain a cool room. We all know heat rises, but fans, whether standing or ceiling, are a great tool to keep the air moving up and out! This will also help your HVAC unit to work less.
- Change your air filters! Depending on the type of household you have, for example the number of people or pets, you may need to change your air filter more frequently. Check it every month to make sure it’s not clogged with dust and debris, which will prevent air from flowing through it, as well as cause some health concerns for your indoor air quality.
- Check all of your vents. Making sure your indoor AND outdoor vents are clean and open will keep your home cool. Dirt and dust can build up and cause clogs, and vents often get closed during cleaning and forgotten about. As soon as the weather starts to warm up, it’s a good idea to check your home’s vents.
- Protect your outdoor unit. Try to make sure it is never in the direct sunlight. A tree can provide shade to your unit but you should watch out for leaves, branches or shrubbery that can fall into your unit and hinder its performance. An awning or some other type of covering is the best way to go, just make sure your unit has space to breathe.
- Install a programmable thermostat. These can often be controlled from anywhere using your phone. You can set a schedule for when you leave and return home and set it for particular rooms, thus saving you energy for when you are not there. Always remember that lowering your thermostat to extreme temperatures will not make your home cool down any faster, it only wastes energy.
- Replace old units with newer, efficient models. While it may cost a lot up front, it will save you time and money in the long run! Newer models by certain brands such as Trane, Carrier and American Standard are marked by Energy Star ratings. These products often use up to 50% less energy than other products.
For questions concerning your HVAC unit, contact Miller’s at 804-758-4314. Our Master Heating and Cooling technicians will help you with repair, replacement and maintenance. For total home care, ask about our Total Care Club Memberships, starting at just $299.