Home & Garden : Stay Cool and Save Money With These Air Conditioner Tips
By: JT Miller Date Submitted: 2010-03-12 13:31:30 - Article Views: 20130
It's almost summertime and soon it will be humid and miserable outside. We can stay dry and cool in our homes but that means paying high energy bills due to the cost of running our air conditioners all day long.
Don't worry, there are some steps you can take to keep your home cool while still saving cash. If you're struggling with paying your electric bill this summer then don't worry because here are a few inexpensive ways you can help your air conditioner work less in the middle of the summer.
Install Shades on You Windows: You'll be amazed at how much cooler your home can be with the strategic placement of a few light-blocking blinds over your sunniest windows. Sunlight pouring in through your windows can heat your home like an oven. Regular curtains probably aren't enough. You'll want to use a real light-blocking blind. You can keep your regular decorative shades in place, just be sure to also use light blocking shades on the same window or doorway. Blocking out that light during the sunniest part of the day can make a dramatic difference in cooling.
Look At your AC Filters: Both window AC units and central air conditioners need to have their air filters regularly replaced. A dirty air filter can prevent cool air from being blown efficiently by your AC unit. You'll want to inspect your air filters once a month and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning and replacing your air filters regularly. A dirty air filter can even cause your AC to stop working. If your air conditioner has is not working properly, you can also try some other AC troubleshooting tips and tricks to get your home cool again.
Plug Up Air Gaps: One way to keep your house cool is to make sure you're not losing any cold air from your AC where you shouldn't be. You can inspect all your windows and doors searching for small openings where cold air could slip out. If you have a central AC then you should go over as much of the metal duct work as you can. Use aluminum duct work tape to cover up any pin holes or gaps that may be releasing cool air. If you have window AC units you may want to make sure they are fastened securely and have no openings around the installation hardware. You may also want to seal off the air duct registers and close the doors in rooms you don't use so that your AC doesn't have to try to cool those rooms too.
All of these home cooling methods will help keep your house interior cooler and help your air conditioner keep running efficiently this summer. These are just some of the many home cooling methods you can use to stay comfortable inside during the dog days of the summer months. Utilizing these energy saving tips in unison with one another can really help you save money on your electric bills and keep you comfortable during the summer!
Author Resource Required for Reprint:
Looking for a way to save money on replacement filters? You can make your own air filters with just a few common household tools. Check out our site for more great home improvement ideas and money-saving tips. Distributed by ContentCrooner.com
A little preventative maintenance around your house this spring can save lot of money in the long run. These simple DIY projects are inexpensive and can really add to your home's curb appeal. Viewed: 92 Times. Read More ...
Examines the pros and cons of those air duct vacuuming services that claim cleaner ducts means you are breathing safer air in your home. Viewed: 122 Times. Read More ...