Frugal Ideas to Make the Most of Your Air Conditioning
Summer brings fun and warmth to your home with barbecues on the porch and games in the yard. Keep your home at a comfortable temperature even during sweltering days with affordable air conditioning. While many frugal-minded people insist on using fans to save money, you can enjoy the coolness in every corner of your home without spending a fortune on air conditioning.
Finding Inexpensive Air Conditioners
Many big box retailers carry air conditioners, or you can purchase an affordable HVAC system with all the features you need from a specialty shop. It is possible to find air conditioners under $100, but make sure the air conditioner is high quality and has a reliable warranty. You may decide that it is a more frugal move to buy a higher-priced energy efficient air conditioner that will enable you to save a significant amount on your electricity bill. Also consider purchasing a used air conditioner if you feel confident that it is in good shape.
Maintenance Saves You Money
Keeping your air conditioner in solid working condition not only allows it generate cool air around the clock, but can save you money. Air conditioners that are damaged have to work harder and use excessive amounts of electricity. The key to saving money and energy when cooling your home is to check your air conditioner regularly and change air filters as needed. A filter that is clogged or dirty can hamper proper air circulation. Simply cleaning off an air filter that is filled with debris can increase the efficiency of your air conditioner by up to 15%. Also, replace damaged filters promptly to ensure consistent performance.
In addition to filters, air conditioner coils also should be checked at least twice a year. When the coils are dirty or damaged, they cannot absorb heat properly. Outdoor air conditioner coils need more maintenance, because they come into contact with more leaves and debris. An added benefit of cleaning and checking filters and coils regularly is that the inspections facilitate troubleshooting and enable you to spot problems. Get ready for summer with a thorough inspection of your air conditioning system. At the first sign of irregular functioning, contact a professional to repair your air conditioner. A quick repair can prevent extensive damage.
Make Less Work for Your Air Conditioner
There are a few small but important things you can do to make your air conditioner’s job of cooling your home easier. The key is to prevent cool air from escaping and to minimize hot spots. Make sure all places air can leak through are sealed. Keep blinds closed throughout the day or put tinted film on the windows to block UV rays. Try to limit use of washing machines and dish wasters to night time hours and use recipes that don’t require an oven. Keep your thermostat set at a consistent level to keep your home comfortable.
There is no need to skimp on air conditioning to save money. There are many ways to keep your home cool and fresh in the summer with a few techniques. Finding the right air conditioner and providing proper maintenance will ensure it works efficiently and that it doesn’t waste valuable energy. Paying attention to details, such as closing blinds and limiting the use of heat-producing devices can keep your family cool and comfortable.
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