When temperatures range from 110-116 degrees, keeping your home cool while trying not to break the bank seems like a futile battle.  Keeping your home cool during the warm months can take a big toll on your finances. Cooling costs can account for more than half of your electric bill. Many new homeowners and house hunters forget to factor this into their yearly expenses. 

Here are a few simple tips to help reduce your cooling costs this summer.

Use Fans Whenever Possible

Use ceiling fans or other fans to circulate air in the house as much as possible. Using fans around the house can make a huge difference in keeping your home cool and they also require less energy and electricity than air conditioning.

Suggested Reading: Home Loan Program in Arizona

Keep the Shades Closed During the Day

Shutting your blinds during the day is another easy way you can keep your house cooler without overworking the AC system.  Blazing sunlight coming through the windows will heat up your house quickly.  Upgrading to darkening screens and sunblock drapes will help your home cool.  Some energy studies have shown keeping the shades closed can reduce heat inside your home by over 30 percent!

Adjust Your Thermostat

Set the thermostat to a comfortable level, and leave it there.  Some homeowners believe that by turning the AC off when you not at home can save energy costs, but it can actually make things worse.  Your AC runs most efficiently when set around 78 degrees.

Consider LED Light Bulbs

It may sound insignificant, but the heat generated by incandescent light bulbs can make a difference when it gets this hot.  Consider LED light bulbs – they generate virtually no heat and are much more energy efficient in general.

In general, regular maintenance of your HVAC system will ensure maximum airflow and maintain efficiency.  The dirtier the filters get, the harder the AC unit has to work to get the home cool, thus costing you more money to run your unit.

Homeowners spend $11 billion every year to power their air conditioners. These tips can add up and help you save on your electric bill and if you’re saving for a new home this added savings can be put away for your new down payment.

The Certo Team
55 N. Arizona Place Suite #103
Chandler, AZ 85225
602-429-6789