10 Ways to Keep Your House Cool and Lower AC Costs

As summer temperatures rise, so does the urge to crank up the air conditioner. However, keeping your house cool doesn’t have to result in skyrocketing energy bills. With a few strategic adjustments and habits, you can create a comfortable indoor environment while saving on AC costs. Here are 10 effective ways to achieve both goals:

Optimize Your Thermostat Setting

Set your thermostat to a higher temperature when you’re away or asleep. Even a small adjustment can make a significant impact on your energy consumption. Consider investing in a programmable or smart thermostat to automate temperature adjustments based on your schedule.

Use Fans Wisely

Ceiling fans and portable fans can help distribute cool air efficiently. Make sure your ceiling fan rotates counterclockwise during summer for optimal cooling. Remember that fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when you leave.

Seal and Insulate

Check your home for drafts and gaps that allow warm air to infiltrate. Seal gaps around windows, doors, and other openings to prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from entering. Proper insulation, especially in the attic, can significantly reduce heat transfer.

Close Curtains and Blinds

Keep curtains, blinds, or shades closed during the hottest parts of the day to block out direct sunlight and heat. Reflective or blackout curtains are particularly effective at keeping indoor temperatures down.

Use Heat-Generating Appliances Wisely

Appliances like ovens, stoves, and clothes dryers generate heat that can raise indoor temperatures. Try to use these appliances during the cooler parts of the day, or consider using a microwave or slow cooker to avoid heating up the kitchen.

Cook and Grill Outdoors

Cooking indoors can add heat to your home. Take advantage of outdoor cooking options like grills or outdoor stovetops to keep indoor temperatures lower.

Opt for Energy-Efficient Appliances

Invest in energy-efficient appliances, especially air conditioners. Look for air conditioning in Melbourne Australia with a high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). Energy-efficient appliances consume less energy, which translates to lower cooling costs.

Ventilate Your Home

When outdoor temperatures are cooler, especially in the evening and early morning, open windows to allow fresh air to circulate. Use cross-ventilation techniques by opening windows on opposite sides of your home to encourage a breeze.

Use Cool Bedding and Clothing

Opt for lightweight, breathable bedding and sleepwear to stay cool at night. Cotton and linen materials are excellent choices for their moisture-wicking properties.

Plant Trees and Shade Structures

Strategically planted trees and shade structures can provide natural shade to your home, reducing direct sunlight and heat absorption. Deciduous trees, which shed leaves in the winter, can also help warm your home during colder months.

Conclusion

Staying cool during hot summer days doesn’t have to result in a higher energy bill. By implementing these 10 strategies, you can create a comfortable indoor environment while keeping AC costs in check. Whether it’s adjusting your thermostat, using fans wisely, or practising energy-efficient habits, a few small changes can go a long way in maintaining a cool and cost-effective home.

If you’re looking for reliable split system installation or evaporative cooling service in your area, look no further than Extrordinair! Contact us today to see how we can help you get the most out of your cooling system.