ELLY GRIMM
• Leader & Times
The weather is starting to heat up throughout the area, which means more people will soon be firing up their air conditioner units.
For those preparing to do that, however, there are some precautions they can take to prevent their power bill from getting too hot.
“One recommendation is to use your windows to keep out heat and install window coverings to prevent heat gain through your windows during the day,” the U.S. Department of Energy noted. “It’s also recommended to find ways to operate your thermostat efficiently. Set your thermostat at a temperature you find comfortable and that provides humidity control, if needed. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be. Keep your house warmer than normal when you are away, and lower the thermostat setting when you return home and need cooling. A programmable thermostat allows you to do this automatically and without sacrificing comfort. Avoid setting your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you first turn on your air conditioner. It will not cool your home any faster and could result in excessive cooling and unnecessary expense.”
Before firing up the air conditioner, however, JustEnergy recommends getting the unit looked at first.
“Your air conditioner requires regular maintenance to function efficiently throughout its years of service. Neglecting necessary maintenance ensures poor performance and unnecessarily high energy use,” JustEnergy noted. “Checking the coils, fins, evaporative cooler, and heat pump may require the services of a professional. Fortunately, you don’t have to be a certified HVAC technician to give your A/C a quick, basic check and make sure that it can do its job effectively. Vacuum air vents regularly to remove any dust buildup and ensure that furniture and other objects are not blocking the airflow through your vents. Avoid placing lamps or TV sets near your thermostat. The thermostat will sense the heat these appliances create, which can cause your A/C to run longer than necessary. Replacing your air filter is one of the easiest and most effective things you can do to make sure that your A/C runs smoothly and efficiently. Clogged, dirty filters block normal airflow and reduce your air conditioner’s ability to absorb heat. Replacing a dirty filter with a clean one can lower your A/C’s energy usage by up to 15 percent. Clean or replace your air conditioning system’s filter every month or two. Filters need more frequent attention if your A/C is in constant use, is subjected to excessive dust, or if you have fur-shedding pets. Single-room air conditioners will have a filter mounted in the grill that faces into the room. In central air systems, you can find the filter somewhere along the length of the return duct. Common locations are in walls, ceilings, furnaces, or in the air conditioner itself.”
JustEnergy also recommended making sure homes are sealed properly.
“Insulation isn’t just for the cold winter months. Preventing air leaks is one of the best ways to keep warm air out and cool air in. Simple caulking and weather-stripping can save up to 30 percent on heating and cooling costs,” JustEnergy noted. “Sealing your home against these leaks is easy, effective, and relatively inexpensive. Use caulk to seal cracks and openings between stationary objects like door and window frames. Apply weather-stripping around things that move, such as window sashes and the door itself. Be sure to check your attic and basement for air leaks, as these floors have large gaps in insulation or missing weather-stripping. Seal the small cracks with foam or caulk. For larger holes, you may need to install or replace insulation.”
Both the Department of Energy and JustEnergy also recommend considering more efficient lighting and appliances.
“Consider lighting options that operate at cooler temperatures, and if convenient, take advantage of daylight instead of artificial lighting, but avoid direct sunlight,” the Department of Energy noted. “It’s also recommended to wash full loads of dishes and clothes for better efficiency.”
“If you’re still using incandescent light bulbs, then it’s time to switch to LED lights. Incandescent bulbs are extremely inefficient,” JustEnergy noted. “Only about 10 to 15 percent of the electricity that they use gets turned into light, with the rest becoming waste heat. LED lights are the most energy-efficient lighting option currently available. They use 75 percent less energy, last 25 times longer, and run much cooler than standard incandescent lights. They cost a little more up front but soon pay for themselves in energy savings. In hot, humid climates, a dehumidifier is a perfect partner to your A/C and a great way to lower humidity levels in your home. A dehumidifier helps lower energy costs because your A/C won’t have to work as hard. When the air in your home is too humid, your air conditioner has to do double duty – cooling the air as well as removing moisture. An A/C that works too hard will also break more often, requiring lengthy and expensive repairs. Also, cooking with a conventional oven can add unwanted heat to your house, forcing your A/C to work harder. Do more of your cooking with a microwave or slow cooker to keep the kitchen cool. Better yet, use the summer heat as an excuse to fire up the old backyard barbeque. Outdoor grilling is a summertime tradition for a reason – you can cook delicious meats and vegetables while keeping the heat outside.”
JustEnergy also recommended unplugging devices not in use.
“From your computer to your toaster, all electronics generate heat. Even if it’s switched off, just being plugged in generates a small amount of heat in the wiring,” JustEnergy noted. “Too keep things cool, unplug any electronics you’re not using. It’s not much per device, but add up all the gizmos in your home, and it can make a few degrees difference.”
