Heating and air conditioning account for 43% of a home owner’s monthly utility bill, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. There is actually quite a lot that can be done to cut that bill down.
Ceiling Fans
Most people know that ceiling fans help residents feel cooler, and research shows that people feel 3-8 degrees cooler when they use a fan. However, the fan needs to be blowing down for maximum cooling. If it’s blowing up, it won’t help at all. Do you know how to tell which way the fan is blowing?
Stand under the fan and look up. For most fans, if the fan is turning counter-clockwise, it is blowing down. If necessary to change the fan’s direction, turn the fan off and flip the switch on the fan. In winter, flip the switch so that the fan is blowing up.
Move the Furniture
Vents aren’t always located in the perfect spots for furniture location. See if any of the vents is covered by a couch or a dresser. If it is, energy is being wasted. Just ensuring that all of the vents have good air flow can save a few dollars every month.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
Some people have these but don’t make full use of their capabilities. When no one will be home during the day on a regular basis, program the thermostat. Some thermostats can even be accessed with a smart phone app. Raising the temperature in the home from 73 degrees to 78 degrees during the day can result in a saving of as much as 30% on the electric bill.
Solar Screens
Solar screens used on windows facing east or west can keep as much as 70% of the solar energy out of the home. Solar screens are much cheaper than removing the heat with the air conditioner. They offer a big advantage over window film because the window can still be opened on a mild day.
When someone calls with a problem, Gonzales Heating & Cooling offer tips to the home owner to see if the problem is something easily fixed. If it’s not a simple fix, a Residential Air Conditioning Services technician will be out shortly to diagnose the problem. They offer a one-year warranty on repairs. They believe that “When you need us the most, we are there.” Visit them at website to learn more about their Residential Air Conditioning Services.
