Summer means increased air conditioning consumption & monthly electric bills. How can you smartly reduce your bill and the amount of power? Responsibly using air conditioning not only has a positive impact on the environment, but can also contribute to significant savings on your monthly bill. Given we’re professionals in the field, we have some tricks to help you reduce your air conditioner’s power consumption so you save a little money over the summer.

5 Key Ways to Save Money and Reduce Air Conditioning Consumption

1. Energy Labeling

When purchasing a new air conditioner, it is essential to take into account energy labeling. This will help you avoid purchasing cheaper solutions that, due to their high degree of energy consumption, are actually more expensive in the long run.

In case of doubt, it is advisable to consult a specialist, who can provide further information on each of the devices you may be considering, to choose the one that best suits each room.

2. Regulate the Air Conditioner Temperature

In summer, a constant and adequate temperature must be established, between 74º F and 79º F.

Therefore, it is recommended to program the air conditioner to start up a few minutes before arriving home and turn it off before leaving. This allows you to avoid making the air conditioner work harder than necessary since the thermal shock is reduced.

3. Device Maintenance

When summer starts up, air conditioner use resumes after a few months off. It may not work at full capacity, so it is advisable to perform a general inspection and maintenance that will help you find out if there is damage to the system so you can make the most of its functions.

Always keeping the air conditioner in good condition ensures optimal operation. Among other things, the filters must be always clean, since dirty filters cause the device to consume more energy and work harder than necessary. Filters should be cleaned every six months, usually timed to around when seasons change – the start of summer and winter.

4. Ventilate Your Home During the Coolest Hours

Ventilate your home at night or when it is dark. This helps keep the interior cooler by taking advantage of the lower room temperature. On the hottest days, your home should be kept closed to prevent hot air from entering and cool air from escaping. All doors and windows must be kept closed when the appliance is switched on.

5. Condition Your Home to Be More Efficient

On top of choosing an efficient air conditioner, it is important that the house is perfectly conditioned. For example, windows and doors that close tightly prevent cold air from escaping and hot air from entering. Light-colored walls also absorb less heat.

Also, during the hours in which the sun falls on the house, protect windows and glass walls with awnings, close any blinds, and run any curtains. This will reduce the amount of light, and the walls will accumulate less heat.

If you follow these recommendations, you can reduce your energy consumption while using your air conditioner. Enjoy a cool summer while saving on your electric bill.