Tips To Cut Your Air Conditioning Costs This Summer

According to the U.S. Department of Energy in the typical New York area building, 40 percent of the energy consumed is for heating and cooling. To help you lower these costs as much as possible, Maxwell Plumb has put together a few tips to lower the amount your spend to keep your building cool while still being comfortable.

1. Locate and Seal Air Leaks - Locate air leaks around windows, doors, and electrical outlets by burning a match stick while running the HVAC fan. Weather-stripping is an easy and low-cost fix that can cut up to 15 percent or more off cooling costs.

2. Switch to CFL or LED Lights - Conventional incandescent bulbs emit a lot of heat. You will keep rooms cooler with energy-efficient light bulbs while saving electricity over the long term.

3. Use Curtains and Blinds - Keep south- and west-facing curtains and blinds closed on hot days and opened during cool evenings.

4. Unplug Electronics - TVs, appliances, and computers that are turned off can still suck power out of outlets. Unplug electronics that are not in use. Use smart strips to make this easier.

5. Use Programmable Thermostats - Program the thermostat to turn the air conditioning off when the household is away to help save up to 10 percent on your cooling costs. Make sure that the thermostat is located on an inside wall, away from drafts.

6. Insulate Attic Access Points - Insulated covers are available for attic doors, hatches, and pull-down stairs. Adequate insulation can cut heating and cooling cuts by 10 percent or more.

7. Ventilate Attics - Ventilation fans help prevent the sun‚Äôs heat from building up in the attic.

9. Check the Air Ducts - Sealing and insulating the building's duct distribution system enhances the cooling system‚Äôs efficiency.

10. Schedule Maintenance - Arrange for regular maintenance to keep your air-conditioning system operating at peak efficiency.