With the brutal heat in Atlanta, air conditioning is important for maintaining your comfort in the summer months. But if you only rely on your air conditioner, you could be paying much more on your cooling and energy bill each month than you need to. You can use the following tips to help keep your home cool so your air conditioning unit doesn’t have to work so hard.
Fans
One of the best ways to beat the heat is by using fans in combination with your air conditioner. Ceiling fans and floor fans can keep your house about seven degrees cooler throughout the day because they can circulate the cool air that is coming through your home from the air conditioning unit. This means that your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard to keep your home cool. Fans also use very little energy. Even some of the bigger fans only cost about $10 a month on your utility bill if you keep them on for 12 hours a day.
Blinds and Drapes
One of the reasons that your home heats up during the summer months is because of the sun’s rays. Most homes are in direct sunlight at some point during the day and if the sun’s rays are coming in the windows, your home is going to feel hot. But if you keep your blinds and drapes closed during those times of the day, you can keep the sun’s rays from heating the interior of your home. This helps keep the temperature down so your air conditioner can work more efficiently to keep your home cool.
Limiting the use of Ovens and Stoves
As difficult as it may be, keeping some of your appliance use to a minimum during the hot days can keep you feeling cool. Ovens and stoves can warm up your home quickly because they generate heat. Dryers can also emit heat which can keep your house hot during the day. Keep the use of these appliances to a minimum and you’ll be able to stay cool without working your air conditioner too much.
Keeping your house cool is mainly going to be accomplished with your air conditioning unit. But it needs some help. By following the tips above, you can save money and save wear and tear on your air conditioner so it will keep your house cool for many years to come.