As the seasons shift and the weather becomes warmer, most of the homeowners in San Diego, California are anticipating a significant rise in their utility bills as they start to turn on their air conditioning. While it may be impossible to avoid using your unit more during the summer, there are many steps homeowners can take to decrease their monthly bills this year and conserve energy in the process. Here are a few tips to reduce your energy use while still preserving your comfort throughout the hottest months of the year.
Open Your Windows
Opening your windows will allow the crisp springtime air to improve your home's ventilation and cool the temperature throughout your home. Spring temperatures are comparatively mild, which is why this is the optimal season to employ this tip.
Plug in Your Fans
Streaming air feels cooling and turning on your ceiling fans or plugging in a standard fan this spring will enable you to set your thermostat four degrees higher and still remain comfortable in your home.
Check and Replace Your AC’s Filters
Regularly cleaning and replacing your unit's air filters can effectively decrease your home's energy use by 15 percent. Also, be sure to clean your air conditioner's evaporator coil once a year in order to make sure your unit is working as effectively as possible. You might also want to think about having your air conditioner examined and serviced at some point during the spring, so you know it will be in great condition when you start to use it on a more frequent basis.
Seal Ducts
Since ducts are accountable for at least 1/4 of an air conditioner's usage, air loss due to unsealed ducts can result in large-scale energy costs. Make a point to seal and protect your ducts. This is an easy chore that can trim your home's energy usage and save you money.
Caulk All Air Openings
Use caulk to seal any cracks or openings that you notice in your home. These openings can cause air loss and hinder the effectiveness of your air conditioning unit's ability to cool your home optimally. Be sure to look for openings around your windows, doors, and electrical panels.