Are you tired of paying higher electric bills to beat the summer heat? As any homeowner knows, running your A/C in warm weather can lead to budget-busting costs.

Many factors affect how efficient your air conditioning is and how much power it uses, including:

• The age, condition and size of the unit
• The square footage of your home
• The design of the air ducts
• How much air escapes your space through doors, windows, etc.
• The weather

Predicting how much your monthly energy bill will be is never an exact science; however, if you want to get a general idea of how much power you’re using, some free online tools can help you calculate air conditioner electricity cost. Here’s one you can try.

How to Reduce Your Air Conditioner’s Power Consumption

The good news is that reducing your air conditioner power consumption is even easier than measuring it! Here are four strategies.

1. Turn It up One Degree

Are you sensitive enough to tell the difference between a 70-degree room and one set at 71 degrees? Most people aren’t. If your goal is to reduce energy use, try bumping your thermostat up one degree above where you would normally set it. Doing so will help your A/C run less frequently and use less power. It will also get you into a habit of being aware of the temperature settings of your thermostat.

The more you ask of your air conditioner, the more you will increase your air conditioner power usage. Even a one-degree decrease will add up in the long run. Make sure everyone in your household knows about your energy-efficiency goals, so you are all on the same page when it comes to your thermostat settings.

2. Buy a Programmable Thermostat

To maximize the efficiency of your air conditioning, ensure it’s running only when necessary and that the temperature is set appropriately. An automated or smart thermostat can keep track of this for you with set-it-and-forget-it ease.

If you’re keeping your energy savings a priority, invest in a thermostat with a programmable schedule. That way, you can set your A/C to run less often at times when nobody is home. Some thermostats are advanced enough to “learn” your schedule over time and program themselves. Many newer ones have an integrated smartphone app that lets you control the temperature remotely.

3. Keep Your Air Ducts Clean and Clear

Your air conditioner will consume more energy if it’s struggling against dirty vents and blocked airflow. Keeping your vents and ducts clean will help your air conditioner run more efficiently. Make sure your furniture and room layout does not block any air vents as well.

4. Plan Preventive Air Conditioner Maintenance

Neglected air conditioners with worn-down parts, dirty components and frayed electrical wires can have a hard time keeping up with the demands of a household in the summer. During a routine maintenance appointment, a qualified A/C technician can fix all these issues and more, helping you save money on your energy bills and reduce your chances of having a premature A/C breakdown on your hands.

Make the Right Call

Reducing your carbon footprint while saving money on your utility bills is a win-win scenario. At Nu-Temp Heating and Air Conditioning, our professional, family-owned team is here to help Philadelphia-area homeowners get the most out of their HVAC systems. Call us today for a free estimate!