The mercury is rising, which means your home’s air conditioner is probably working hard to keep you cool. But don’t sweat it! There are things you can do to make sure your HVAC is operating more efficiently, plus save energy in other areas that will help keep your summer energy bill in check.
Here are our 9 favorites:
- Replace air filters every month. A clean filter can lower an AC unit’s energy usage by 5% – 15% (about $25 a year).
- Stop air leaks by installing proper insulation and sealing gaps in windows, doors and air ducts to save up to $185 a year.
- Install a programmable thermostat to cool your home more efficiently and on your schedule. Set your thermostat at 78 degrees when you’re home and 85 when you’re away.
- Use power strips for TVs, cable boxes, and game consoles, and flip off the switch when not in use.
- Wash only full loads of clothes using cold water and air-dry clothes instead of using the dryer.
- Wash only full loads of dishes and let them air dry instead of using the heat cycle to dry them.
- Replace light bulbs in your 5 highest usage lights with compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs). This can save you $45 a year!
- Set your refrigerator temperature between 30° and 42° and your freezer between 0° and 5°. Keep your refrigerator full to reduce the amount of cold air lost each time you open the door.
- Think your HVAC isn’t operating at its best? Have it serviced – we recommend doing this at least once a year.
Need to buy CFLs, caulk, power strips, or fans? Get them for 20% off at our Energy Saver Store by using promo code “POWER20” at checkout. Visit greenmountainenergy.com/EnergySaverStore.
Check out more tips to save energy and money at our Energy Saver Center.
Also, read our Top 10 Tips for a Sustainable Summer.
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