Five Things That Will Raise Your Energy Bill This Summer
For a lot of people, high energy bills are a constant problem during the summer months. There are several reasons for this, particularly the increased use of air conditioning. It’s important to stay aware of these common reasons for higher energy bills so you can avoid them. Read on for some of the most common things that will raise your energy bill this summer and ways to prevent them from occurring. With help from your HVAC contractor and plumber, you should be well on your way toward lower energy costs!
Keeping your AC on all day
One of the most common culprits of a high energy bill during the summer is increased air conditioner usage. You’ll obviously want to leave your AC unit on during warmer days but if the temperature is a bit milder, consider using fans instead. Another great way to avoid too much AC usage this summer is by investing in a smart thermostat. With a smart thermostat, you can easily control the temperature inside your home remotely. That means, instead of leaving your AC on all day, you could just turn it on right before you get home.
Avoiding proper HVAC maintenance
Your HVAC system will be working hard this summer. To avoid HVAC issues, it’s best to have a professional inspect your system from time to time. A professional contractor will be able to spot smaller problems that may turn into larger ones.
Aside from calling a professional, you should also provide your HVAC system with proper maintenance throughout the year. Routinely check the air filters to assure they’re free from dust, dirt and other debris. You should also keep the vents free from debris and clean the outdoor unit when necessary.
Generating too much heat in the home
People often generate a lot of heat without realizing it. Cooking, taking long showers and leaving blinds open can all produce heat in the home. Your AC unit will have to work much harder due to this increased heat, which results in higher energy bills. Try to avoid cooking too many hot meals inside. It’s summer, so why not use the outdoor grill instead? You could also reduce heat in the home by investing in some top-quality curtains.
Leaving the blinds open
While it might be tempting to leave your blinds open all day, this could increase the amount of heat that enters your home. Keeping your blinds and curtains closed during the warmest parts of the day will help take some of the pressure off your AC unit.
Neglecting water heater repairs
Sometimes, leaks in electric water heaters can cause an increase in energy bills. If your water heater is leaking or making noise, it’s best to contact a plumber right away. Proper water heater maintenance can help you avoid leaks in the first place.
Avoiding high energy bills this summer is easier than you think. Just be sure to take care of your HVAC system and avoid running the AC all day. Not only will lowering your energy usage reduce your bills, but it’s also great for the environment.
If you’re in need of top-quality plumbing services this summer, contact the experts at Orchard Plumbing.