5 ways to cut your A/C costs

Summer is quickly approaching. It’s almost time for pool parties, BBQs and, unfortunately, sky-high electricity bills.

According to Energy Star, half of the average home’s summer energy bill goes toward keeping it cool. Here are some energy saving tips to help keep a few more dollars in your pocket this summer.

Keep vents clean and clear. It’s a good idea to clean out your air ducts every six months, or at the very least, once a year. Less dust and dirt buildup means more cool air fills your home.

Plug any air gaps. Your parents were right. You don’t want to cool off the whole neighborhood just because of a lack of insulation. So get the caulk or weather-stripping tape out to take care of any leaks from your doors and windows. Keeping all the cool air inside means less work for your air conditioning unit.

Replace Air Conditioning Filters. According to Energy.gov, simply replacing your dirty air conditioning filter with a clean one can reduce your unit’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%.

Invest in a Programmable Thermostat. This one is a year-round gift to your wallet. Set the temperature to be a little warmer in the summer and a little cooler in the winter. Each degree above 72 degrees represents a 1% to 3% savings on your electric bill.

Regular maintenance of the air conditioning unit. Get yours checked at least once a year, so you won’t have to beg friends or relatives to crash at their place if your A/C unit dies unexpectedly. Hire a professional to clean the coils, check for clogs, replace fuses and check the compressor for leaks to ensure your A/C system is running as efficiently as possible, and to make minor repairs before they turn into major expenses.