With springtime on the horizon in St. Louis, many families are focused on finding ways to keep cool while also cutting costs for their energy expenses. As the outdoor temperatures rise, your home’s energy consumption patterns are likely to shift, making energy conservation a top priority.
The HVAC experts at Classic Aire Care share five energy-efficiency tips for helping you stay cool while maximizing savings on your monthly utility bills.
1. Get an AC Tune-Up
One of the most important things you can do for your air conditioner and wallet is schedule an annual AC tune-up. Regular maintenance ensures that your AC system operates efficiently, reducing energy consumption and extending its usable lifespan.
During a tune-up, your HVAC technician will inspect and clean essential components, including air filters, coils, and ductwork. They’ll also check for leaks or inefficiencies that could compromise your cooling system’s performance. By investing in a regular air conditioning tune-up, you’ll enjoy improved comfort and lower energy bills throughout the spring and summer seasons.
2. Adjust Your Thermostat
When the weather starts to heat up, setting and forgetting your thermostat can be tempting, but it can cost you more in the long run. Take advantage of natural climate control by adjusting your thermostat settings to maximize your savings.
During the day, set your thermostat a few degrees higher to reduce cooling demand for your household. When temperatures drop back down in the evening, lower your thermostat to avoid unnecessary energy consumption. Consider investing in a programmable or smart thermostat to automate your temperature adjustments based on your schedule and comfort preferences. This purchase can help significantly reduce your energy expenses.
3. Evaluate Your Window Treatments
The window treatments you have installed in your home can significantly impact your energy conservation efforts. As the sunlight grows stronger in the springtime, consider using light-colored curtains or blinds to reflect heat away from your home. Consider installing cellular shades or insulated curtains to help prevent unwanted thermal transfer during the spring and summer months.
Energy-efficient window treatments will help you conserve energy and reduce your reliance on your cooling system, reducing strain on your comfort system and a longer usable lifespan.
4. Weatherproof Your Home
As springtime settles in, the seasonal change is a great opportunity to identify drafts and air leaks throughout your home. Take the time to assess your home’s insulation needs, checking for gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and other openings where conditioned air can escape.
If you identify any air leaks, treat the gaps or cracks by caulking them or adding weatherstripping to your doors and windows. You may also consider adding more insulation to your attics, walls, floors, basements, and other areas to increase your home’s energy efficiency.
5. Get Your Ducts Cleaned
Over time, dirt, dust, and other airborne pollutants can clog up your home’s ductwork, reducing airflow and poor HVAC efficiency. Scheduling professional duct cleaning at the start of the spring season can help minimize the strain on your cooling equipment and improve its energy efficiency.
By ensuring proper airflow, clean ducts enable your air conditioner to operate more reliably and efficiently, leading to lower energy costs and improved indoor comfort. You should schedule professional duct cleaning at least once every three to five years to ensure adequate airflow and optimal energy efficiency for your system.
Schedule HVAC Services in St. Louis
By implementing the above energy conservation strategies for your air conditioning system, you can enjoy lower cooling costs for your St. Louis home. Classic Aire Care is here to help ensure your system is optimized for the spring and summer if it’s been longer than a year since your last AC tune-up. Through our comprehensive inspections, we’ll help identify potential deficiencies and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your AC system operates at peak performance all season.
Schedule air conditioning maintenance in St. Louis, MO, today by calling our team at (314) 329-1943.
