SerpApi.Org
Key Points
- Setting your AC to the coldest temperature and leaving it there wastes energy and increases costs.
- Adjusting your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature saves money and reduces energy use.
- Proper maintenance, like changing filters and blocking sunlight, keeps your AC efficient and lowers bills.
There are few better feelings than enjoying the cool blast from an air conditioner during a scorching heat wave—especially right when you walk in from outside. Yet as welcome as this technology is, it’s also important to understand how to best use your AC on hot days without accidentally racking up a $600 HVAC bill.
Here’s the most expensive thermostat habit during a heatwave, according to an HVAC pro, so you can avoid doing just that. Stay cool and cost-effective out there.
Meet the Expert
Andy Fox is a filtration and indoor air quality specialist at Filtrete, a 3M air filter brand.
What Is the Most Expensive AC Setting During a Heatwave?
“The most expensive setting for your AC is to turn it to the coldest setting and leave it there or forget to manually change it later,” Andy Fox, a filtration and indoor air quality specialist at Filtrete air filters, says. “The home won’t cool more quickly compared to setting a defined temperature on the thermostat, and if the home’s temperature drops below the desired temperature, the HVAC system will consume excess energy.”
In other words, you’ll rack up a higher bill if crank your thermostat down and then leave it at the low temperature even as you warm up or as you leave the house to run errands.
According to Fox, the thermostat temperature is one of the most significant drivers in air conditioning costs.
“To save money, set the thermostat at the highest tolerable temperature, and consider raising the temperature set point throughout the day, when the home may be vacant,” he adds. “Also, pay close attention to how your electricity is priced and try to minimize AC use during the most expensive periods.”
How To Minimize AC Costs and Stay Cool
No matter what setting you choose to set your thermostat to, there are several other tricks you can take advantage of to stay cool and minimize monthly AC costs.
Change Your AC Filter Regularly
Fox recommends changing your HVAC filter at least every three months for 1-inch-thick filters, and every six to 12 months for 4-inch and thicker filters.
If you have a portable unit like a mini split or a window unit, you should also replace or clean that filter regularly for a more efficient system.
“Be sure to have the system regularly serviced by an HVAC professional, as something like low refrigerant pressure can greatly impact the cooling efficiency,” he says.
Minimize Outdoor Light During the Day
Allowing external sunlight into your home can drive up the overall temperature.
“For the entire home, work to block sunlight by using window blinds and shades during the day, take advantage of natural ventilation through open windows,” Fox notes. “Also, be strategic about activities that heat the home, especially like baking food in the oven, and minimize using lights and appliances that produce heat.”
Consider Using Portable AC Units
If a room in your home needs additional cooling, consider investing in another air conditioning source to stay comfortable without driving up your energy bill.
“Specific rooms can be addressed in a more cost-effective manner with window or portable AC units,” Fox says. “Both portable and ceiling fans can be used throughout the home to help the indoors feel cooler.”
Read the original article on The Spruce
