Break These Habits to Stop Wasting Money On Air Conditioning
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, cooling accounts for about 12% of residential energy use nationwide. But in hotter, humid cities like Richmond, VA, that number climbs dramatically during the summer months. Residents in Richmond can easily spend over $200 a month on air conditioning alone. That stifling heat paired with soaring cooling bills hits hard. If you’re sweating the temperature and your energy bill, it’s time to break these costly air conditioning habits:
Ignoring Routine HVAC Maintenance
Richmond’s climate can be brutal on HVAC systems. If you’re not scheduling regular maintenance at least once a year, you’re probably reducing your HVAC system’s efficiency by up to 15%. Dirty coils, worn parts, and clogged filters make your air conditioner work harder than it should. A quick seasonal AC tuneup from a local service technician could save you hundreds of dollars over the summer.
Setting the Thermostat Too Low
Setting your thermostat to 68 degrees when it’s 95 degrees outside isn’t just unrealistic; it’s expensive. Every degree you raise the thermostat can save you about 3% on cooling costs. The Department of Energy recommends 78 degrees when you’re home and using a programmable thermostat to bump it up while you’re away. This is a must-have tool for Richmond residents trying to cut their cooling bills.
Leaving Blinds And Curtains Open
The summer sun streaming through your windows is more than just annoying. It turns your home into a greenhouse. South- and west-facing windows absorb the most heat. Keep blinds or thermal curtains closed during peak sunlight hours to reduce heat gain by up to 45%.
Neglecting Ceiling Fans
Many Richmond, VA, homes have ceiling fans, but most homeowners don’t use them effectively. Fans don’t cool rooms; they cool people. But used properly, they allow you to raise your thermostat by 4 degrees without sacrificing comfort. Make sure the ceiling fan is spinning counterclockwise in summer to create a wind-chill effect.
Cooling Empty Rooms
If you have central air conditioning and all your vents are open, you’re cooling spaces that no one is using. Close vents in unoccupied rooms, and consider installing zoning AC systems or ductless mini-splits for more targeted cooling. It’s a simple change that can shrink your monthly cooling bill fast.
Skipping Air Filter Replacements
It’s easy to forget, but a dirty air filter blocks airflow and forces your AC system to work harder. In hot and humid cities like Richmond, VA, filters should be replaced every one to three months, especially during peak usage. Check your air filter monthly; your lungs and wallet will thank you.
Running Appliances During the Hottest Part Of The Day
Using ovens, dryers or dishwashers in the middle of a hot afternoon raises your home’s temperature, causing your air conditioner to work double-time. Shift heat-generating chores to the early morning or late evening. Better yet, fire up the grill or line-dry clothes to cut heat and save energy.
Not Sealing Windows And Doors
Drafty windows and doors let hot air seep in and cold air leak out. A quick inspection with a lit incense stick can reveal leaks. Use weather stripping and caulk to seal gaps. This small DIY project can reduce cooling loss by up to 30% in older Richmond, VA, homes.
Don’t let bad habits burn a hole in your wallet this summer. Richmond’s weather may be intense, but your energy bill doesn’t have to be because of wasteful air conditioning usage. Break these patterns now, and you’ll stay cool without going broke. Contact Atlantic Shores Heating and Cooling to schedule our AC services, whether you need a zoned installation, rapid air conditioner repair or preventive maintenance.
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