In the summertime, you may find that it’s more expensive to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Air conditioning accounts for over 12 percent of a home’s energy usage on an annual basis. There are ways to stay cool without spending a fortune. Let’s take a closer look at some of the methods that you could use to reduce cooling costs.

Set Your Thermostat to a Higher Temperature

While you want your home to be comfortable, it is not necessary to have your air conditioning running at all times. This is costly and can lead to your system being overworked. To save money, raise the temperature when you are away from home. This process can be made even easier with the installation of a smart thermostat that can be operated via your phone, enabling you to adjust the temperature from anywhere.

Summer mornings are generally cooler, meaning that you don’t have to turn on the AC until later in the day. Use fans to circulate air if it becomes stuffy. Temperatures also drop during the evening hours, so you can crack open a window to get some fresh air and raise the temperature on the thermostat.

Use Curtains to Reduce Cooling Costs

When your curtains are left open, the sun will heat the home and your air conditioning will be working overtime to cool your home down. Black-out curtains will significantly help reduce cooling costs. Hang them on all of your windows and close them in rooms that receive the most direct sun throughout the day. As an added bonus, these same curtains will help insulate your home when it’s cold outside.

Reduce Cooling Costs with HVAC Servicing

If you want to reduce your cooling costs, it is important that your HVAC system is efficient and properly maintained. A system that is not functioning well will drive up your electric bill. If the system is not taken care of, it is likely to break down and you will be responsible for an expensive repair. Schedule an annual HVAC tune-up in spring and again in the fall.

All Pro Property Inspections offers home inspection services to San Diego and the surrounding area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.