Even though summer is a season we look forward to, the hot weather and rising energy bills that come with it still remain dreadful. But as much as we’d like to practice frugality, we’d also like to stay cool inside our homes.
And because of that, our AC works the hardest during this season. It runs all day with the thermostats dropped, bathing us in the cool air as if we’re stuck in spring. When our bodies seem to get used to the cold, we tend to drop the thermostat even lower, but if you still feel hot even at 60°, it isn’t you anymore, but your AC; it’s a sign that you already need to call in a reliable air conditioner repair service provider in Salt Lake City or any other area.
But is it safe to run your AC at 60°, in the first place? If you’re trying to save energy costs, here’s how to properly use your AC:
1. Keep the Thermostat Set at 70 Degrees
Sadly, it’s very inefficient to drop the thermostat too low. If you’re bummed because a thermostat of 70° and higher will make you hot, it isn’t actually bad for our bodies, because according to research, we can adjust pretty quickly to cool and warm temperatures. Not within hours, though, but in a week or two. Just think about the fact that you can save up to 3% of your air conditioning bill for every degree you add, so take off your sweater, and allow your body to adjust until you become cool and comfortable with 70° and up.
2. Use a Ceiling Fan
According to the National Resource Defense Council (NRDC), a ceiling fan can make a room cooler by 10°. Couple that with an AC that’s running at 70, then you can still enjoy the chilly air that you want. Be sure that the ceiling fan is turning counterclockwise for better airflow.
3. Use a Programmable Thermostat
Programmable or smart thermostats have been booming in the markets for a couple of years now, so if you don’t have one yet, this is your sign to buy it now. This device allows us to control the thermostats remotely through an app, so you can always be sure that your AC isn’t wasting your energy bills while you’re away.
4. Keep the Thermostat Away From a Hot Area
If your AC still keeps on blowing chilly air even when it isn’t needed, chances are it’s the thermostat on the wall detecting a hotter temperature. This will skyrocket your energy bills, so transfer your thermostat in an area where it won’t detect the scorching hot temperatures outside.
5. Don’t Block the Vents
If you have furniture in the way of your vent, move them away, because a blocked vent limits air circulation. It can be fine if you spend most of your time cooped up in that furniture, but otherwise, the obstructed vent hinders an entire room from being cool.
6. Avail Yearly Servicing
When was the last time you had your AC serviced? If you’re going to use your unit every day in the summer, better have it professionally examined before or as soon as the season begins. After all, the last thing you want is to be surprised by a malfunctioning unit in the middle of a heatwave.
Following the right way to use an AC in the summer, you’ll dread your energy bills less, allowing you to enjoy your extra budget for something fun, such as enjoying a cone of ice cream or going to the beach. Maintain efficient AC usage throughout the year to save on energy costs.
