When you live in San Antonio, needing to run the AC isn’t a matter of if so much as when. However, running your HVAC system all summer long can put a lot of wear on the unit and leave you with a bill as likely to raise your temperature as the Texas heat. Fortunately, there are a few tips you can practice with your heating and cooling system that will have you saving energy and saving dollars all year long.Don’t Freeze the Ghosts
If you’re not at home, there’s no reason to run your AC. Before you leave in the morning, turn the thermostat into the high 80s to keep it from cooling off your empty home. If you have pets, you might want to set it to turn on in the mid-80s just to keep the critters more comfortable. Program the thermostat to begin cooling your home about a half hour before you get home instead or leave it until you get home to manually set it.
Commune with Nature
On those rare days when the temperature isn’t quite as blistering, consider turning the AC off and using fans. A well-placed floor fan or ceiling fans can circulate enough air to keep you cool without spiking your energy costs. If the temperature allows it, open your windows and doors to air out your house while nature keeps you cool.
Go Green
Look for the Energy Star seal of approval on your thermostat. While you might be toting a mechanical unit that came with the house three decades ago, upgrading to an energy-efficient model with extensive programming can go a long way to saving money through the season.
Be Patient
Turning your thermostat down to 60 degrees won’t cool your house down any quicker, but it will waste a lot of energy in the process. Set your thermostat for the ambient temperature that you want it to be at, and give the HVAC system time to do the things it needs. In the meanwhile, pour yourself a cold drink and complain to anyone who will listen. If you’re interested in upgrading your HVAC system or learning about other “cool” energy-saving options, contact us at ABC today!