As we approach Fall, Everyone is trying to find a way to lower your utilities and stay comfortable in your homes. This is the time of year that means a constant struggle at home: run the air conditioning and run up your utility bill, or save money but feel like you’re exposed by having your windows open and leaving you and your family vulnerable. Before you go and make some big decisions, start with these easier options to lower your utilities without compromising.
Use A Programmable Thermostat
Even raising your thermostat by a couple of degrees when no one is home means your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard. The best option would be to turn your A/C off entirely when no one is home, but we understand that it’s nice to come home to a bit of cool. A programmable thermostat lets you set a higher temperature when you’re at work, then a cooler temperature when you’re home. According to Smart Energy, you can save 4 to 8 percent for every degree the thermostat is raised.
Replace Old/Inefficient Appliances
f you have an old dishwasher or other appliances, it might be time to replace them. This is often overlooked as a way to lower your utilities. Older appliances tend to use up more energy than newer options, so replacing them could save you hundreds or thousands in the long run. Replacing them with Energy Star® appliances can further boost your savings. Energy Star appliances are made to use at least 15 percent less energy than a non-certified option. That energy savings could mean you can run your A/C just a bit cooler.
Check Insulation
One of the most common causes of higher utility bills is poor insulation. This means the stuff within your walls, but it also includes old windows and doors that let air leak out around the sides. It can be hard to check your insulation without getting into the walls, so we suggest calling a local contractor who works with siding, windows, and roofing to give your home a once-over and check the insulation levels. They can help you pinpoint problem areas where your paid-for cool air is leaking out of your home
Run Ceiling Fans
Compared to your home’s HVAC system, running a ceiling fan might feel like a wasted effort. However, running ceiling fans in addition to your A/C can help a room drop four degrees cooler. While you’re at it, block out the sun, especially when you’re gone. Closing blinds and curtains will help keep the sun from heating your home’s interior, and curtains can also help insulate your home and keep more cool air inside.
Efficient Paint Coatings
It might sound a bit crazy, but giving your home’s exterior a fresh coat of paint can also help your utility bills. COOLWALL® paint coating is a heat-reflective coating designed specifically to help keep homes cooler. It reflects the sun’s UV rays and has fade-resistant technology to keep it looking great while your home stays cool.
Learn more about COOLWALL® heat-reflective coating and other ways to help improve your home’s efficiency. For house painting, siding, roofing, and more in the Sacramento area, contact Chriswell Home Improvements today. If you’d like more information, check out our YouTube Channel.