By zp7op | Contributor
With temperatures expected to be at least 2 degrees higher than the historical averages across much of the country, based on forecasts from AccuWeather, the upcoming summer might see a spike in air-conditioning expenses.
“Summer is when homeowners begin planning on how to maintain a cool and comfortable home while staying within their budget,” noted Michael Williford, HVAC service manager at Hiller Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical. “We assist customers in keeping their current HVAC systems functioning efficiently or in upgrading to more efficient options, which can significantly impact their utility bills. Additionally, there are numerous strategies homeowners can implement to manage their energy expenses during the warm summer months.”
Here are some practical, money-saving tips to help reduce your energy bills.
Regularly Maintain HVAC Systems
To achieve optimal cooling performance and efficiency, hire a licensed professional to service your heating and cooling system throughout the year. While homeowners can often take care of tasks like keeping outdoor units clear of debris and changing air filters, it is important to have a professional perform maintenance once or twice a year to check ductwork and electrical components.
Utilize Appliances in Off-Peak Hours
Instead of running stoves, ovens, and dryers during the heat of the day, plan to use these appliances early in the morning or later in the evening. Many electricity providers consider noon to 6 p.m. as peak usage times, so using heat-generating appliances outside of these hours can help reduce energy costs.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Heat Pumps
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) encourages homeowners to invest in energy-efficient HVAC upgrades, including approved heat pumps that enhance seasonal energy efficiency. For instance, Mitsubishi Electric heat pumps provide improved energy-efficient cooling, potentially leading to savings in both costs and energy, while also minimizing the carbon footprint. These systems feature inverter or variable-speed technology that adjusts energy usage based on the room’s needs. While annual savings can vary, some homeowners might save up to $1,000 each year by transitioning to an all-electric heat pump.
Cook Outside to Save Energy
During extreme heat, it’s wise to use the grill for cooking, which can help in reducing energy consumption and lowering air-conditioning costs. Alternatives like toaster ovens, air fryers, and slow cookers are more energy-efficient than conventional stoves or ovens. Get inventive by making pizza in a chiminea or smoking meats instead of using the oven.
Avoid Cooling Unoccupied Rooms
A common error among homeowners is neglecting to change their temperature settings when leaving the house. Whether you’re going to the beach for the weekend or just off to work, running the air conditioning in an empty house can lead to inflated utility bills. Multi-zone, all-electric heat pumps, such as those from Mitsubishi Electric, enable homeowners to customize comfort settings and manage temperatures in individual rooms. With a smartphone app, you can adjust settings even when you’re away.
Implement a Smart Electric Panel
By adding a smart electrical panel alongside an all-electric heat pump, homeowners can track and manage energy consumption either on-site or remotely via smartphone, leading to enhanced efficiency and savings on utility costs.
Utilize Solar Energy with Solar Panels
The Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy states that the amount of sunlight hitting the Earth’s surface within just 90 minutes could power the world’s total energy needs for an entire year. Installing solar panels can lower energy bills and boost your home’s sustainability. Furthermore, numerous utility companies and government programs, including the IRA, provide incentives to help offset the cost of installation. Additionally, solar energy works well with all-climate heat pumps, which operate using minimal electricity.
Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
