How to Have a Cool and Comfortable Summer Without Breaking the Bank
Summer has arrived in full force,, and many of us are turning to our air conditioning units for a much-needed reprieve from the heat. As we do so, we also nervously await our energy bills to see the result of having to use the AC more often than usual. Truly, the summertime can contribute to higher bills and it isn’t a bad idea to look for ways to stay cool without having to spend extra money. As the leading AC tune-up service, we are happy to provide you with our top tips for a cool and comfortable summer.
1. Stay Hydrated
First, we advise that you drink plenty of water. Doing this will help you regulate your body temperature and cool off from within. To encourage your water drinking habits, we suggest adding flavor to it in the form of mint or basil leaves, lemon, or slices of cucumber. These flavors are naturally refreshing and will help you stay cool.
2. Dress Appropriately
We also recommend wearing lightweight and breathable clothing throughout the hot summer months. Clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen are best for breathability and will allow your body to stay cooler. It is also best to opt for light colors that reflect sunlight rather than absorb it.
3. Use Shutters, Blinds, and Curtains
As the team that offers the best air conditioning tune up specials, we cannot emphasize the importance of using your shutters, blinds, or curtains enough. They create the natural shade your home needs and block the hot sun rays from entering the home. Thus, your home can fight hot temperatures and preserve your home’s comfort levels without over using the AC.
4. Use a Ceiling Fan
Another great way to maintain comfortable temperatures at home is by using a ceiling fan. Though ceiling fans don’t cool the air inside the home, they do disrupt the natural circulation of air and create a small breeze that will help you cool off. If your air conditioning is working simultaneously, the ceiling fan will also help those cool temperatures distribute quicker, increasing the unit’s efficiency. Those who provide AC tune up services will readily agree that ceiling fans will help you maintain your AC’s lifespan and keep your energy bills lower.
5. Set Appropriate Thermostat Settings
Most people know that if they turn on the AC, they will most certainly cool off their home. However, not many know that in order to save money, they must keep their thermostat within an appropriate range. This allows the AC to work efficiently, saving you money on bills and keeping you comfortable. Follow these guidelines for setting your thermostat:
- Turn the AC on with the thermostat set to 78 degrees Fahrenheit during the spring and summer months
- If you’re leaving the house, bring the thermostat temperatures up by a few degrees
- For optimal efficiency, keep the thermostat within 7-10 degrees of the outdoor temperatures.
We want you to keep in mind that setting the thermostat temperatures too low can result in excessive wear and tear of the unit. You may also end up paying for extra repairs and higher energy bills.
6. Take Cool Showers
A cool shower can also go a long way toward keeping you cool and comfortable. As you stand under that cold water, your body temperatures will naturally decrease and help you take a break from the heat. You will instantly feel refreshed without having to keep the AC running at excessively low temperatures.
7. Take Advantage of Our AC Tune Up Specials Before the Heat Wave
The best way to keep your energy bills to a minimum is by keeping up with regular maintenance services for your air conditioning unit. Your ac maintenance tech will do the following:
- Clean or change the air filters
- Clean and lubricate all necessary parts
- Clean air ducts
- Recharge refrigerant fluid
- Adjust parts as needed
All these steps will help ensure that your unit is working as smoothly as possible without consuming more energy than necessary. As a result, you will save money in the long run on monthly utilities.
Have you scheduled your air conditioning tune up yet? Call Dream Team today to set up your visit and reap the long term benefits of caring for your unit.
