August in Florida is no joke! The temperatures are soaring, the humidity is relentless, and your AC is running around the clock to keep you and your family cool. If your energy bills are still sky-high, you don’t have to worry because you’re not alone. But the good news is that you can make simple adjustments to stay cool without wreaking havoc on your wallet.
Here are five easy home cooling tweaks to help lower your energy costs before summer winds down.
1. Raise Your Thermostat (Just a Bit!)
We know it’s tempting to crank the AC down to the lowest setting, but even a few degrees can make a difference. It may seem counterintuitive, but aiming for 78°F when you’re home and 85°F or higher when you’re away can make a huge difference when paying the bill. Just think about your hours at work, running errands, or out having fun. This time can really add up over the month, and you can see significant savings.
Optimize Home Cooling Tweaks With a Smart Thermostat for When You’re Away
This way, you don’t have to remember to adjust the thermostat manually before you leave and when you get home. It sets according to your schedule and does the work for you. There’s a bonus as well! Setting consistent temperatures can prevent your system from working harder than necessary. Properly maintaining your HVAC system can help it last longer and reduce the need for costly repairs.
2. Close Blinds and Curtains During Peak Heat
Sunlight streaming through your windows is great—until it turns your living spaces into a sauna, especially during peak afternoon hours. Be mindful of those times, and adjust your blinds and curtains accordingly.
Consider Reflective Window Film to Block Heat
This is one of the simple home cooling tweaks you can use to help block heat and keep costs down. Reducing the amount of direct sunlight can significantly lessen the burden on your air conditioning system.
3. Switch Your Ceiling Fans to Counterclockwise
Ceiling fans help circulate cool air, but did you know the direction of the blades matters? In the summer, be sure to set your fan to spin counterclockwise. Doing so creates a wind-chill effect, making rooms feel cooler even when the thermostat is set higher. It results in a direct downdraft, reduced reliance on air conditioning, and energy savings. Keep in mind that fans don’t cool rooms, they cool people. Get in the habit of turning them off when you leave the space to save energy.
4. Seal Air Leaks and Insulate Problem Areas
Cool air escaping your house is like throwing money out the window—literally. Always be sure to prepare at the beginning of the summer season by checking for drafts around windows, doors, and ductwork. Seal gaps with weatherstripping or caulk, and insulate your attic or crawl spaces to keep the cool air where it belongs. These minor home cooling tweaks can greatly impact your energy efficiency, so take the time to make sure that cool air stays in the residence where it belongs.
5. Schedule an HVAC Tune-up
If your system hasn’t been serviced this season, it’s not too late. Don’t wait until next season! A professional tune-up ensures that:
- Your system is running efficiently.
- Air filters are clean.
- Refrigerant levels are correct.
Also, catching minor issues early can help you avoid costly repairs that can pop up, especially when your system is working its hardest.
August might be the hottest month of the year, but your energy bills don’t have to reflect it. With these quick home cooling tweaks, you can stay cool and comfortable all month long while keeping costs in check.
Need Help Maximizing Your Home’s Efficiency?
Harrington Air Conditioning is here to help with tune-ups, system upgrades, and expert advice on cooling smartly. Contact us for a consultation, and enjoy cool savings even when the temperature rises.
