Keeping your Alton, IL home cool during hot months can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By adopting energy-efficient practices, you can reduce your air conditioning costs while maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. Here are some practical ways to run your AC more efficiently and save money on your energy bills.
Set the Thermostat Wisely
One of the easiest ways to lower your cooling costs is to set your thermostat to an optimal temperature. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends keeping it at 78°F when you’re home and increasing it by a few degrees when you’re away. Using a programmable or smart thermostat can automate these adjustments, ensuring your AC isn’t running when it’s not needed.
Use Fans to Circulate Air
Ceiling and box fans don’t lower temperatures, but they help distribute cool air more efficiently, reducing the strain on your AC. Fans create a wind-chill effect, making a room feel cooler than it actually is. This enables you to set the thermostat higher while maintaining a comfortable temperature.
Seal and Insulate Your Home
Leaks in doors, windows, and ductwork force your AC to work harder. Seal gaps with weather stripping or caulk to prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from entering. Adding insulation to walls and attics also helps maintain indoor temperatures, reducing the amount of cooling needed.
Keep Blinds and Curtains Closed
Direct sunlight streaming through windows can heat up your Alton, IL home quickly, causing your AC to run longer. Using blackout curtains, blinds, or reflective window films blocks heat from entering, making it easier to keep your home cool. If possible, open windows in the evening when temperatures drop to allow natural cooling.
Avoid Heat-Generating Activities During Peak Hours
Appliances like ovens, stoves, and dryers produce heat that raises indoor temperatures. Run these appliances in the morning or late evening when it’s cooler. Opt for grilling outdoors, using a microwave, or preparing no-cook meals to reduce the heat load on your AC.
Maintain Your AC Unit
Regular maintenance improves your AC’s efficiency. Replace or clean air filters every one to three months to ensure proper airflow. Dirty filters make your AC work harder, increasing energy consumption. Additionally, have a professional HVAC technician inspect and service your unit annually to keep it running optimally.
Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient AC
If your AC unit is over 10–15 years old, upgrading to a newer model can significantly cut energy usage. Newer units are designed to cool more efficiently, using less electricity while providing better performance.
Use a Dehumidifier
Humidity makes indoor temperatures feel warmer than they actually are. A dehumidifier removes excess moisture, making the air feel cooler and reducing the workload on your AC. This allows you to keep your thermostat at a higher setting without discomfort.
If you live in Alton, IL and are looking for a nearby HVAC contractor who can help you keep your AC working as energy-efficient as possible, call Dixon Heating & Air Conditioning toady.