Summer is in full swing, heat waves are at all-time high, and you might already be experiencing big spikes in your energy bills.
Did you know the weather is the number one cause of higher electric bills? Rising outdoor temperatures lead to higher A/C use, which can account for half or more of your monthly energy costs. That’s a lot.
So, it’s time to start thinking about ways to beat the heat by turning those savings into summer energy wins, but also to debunk some of the biggest myths when it comes to A/C units.
Let’s walk through six of the most common summer energy myths to help you cool those rising electricity costs.
MYTH 1: Bigger is better
A large A/C unit can create extra humidity and may not cool a room evenly. So when it comes to A/C, bigger is not always better!
Square footage of your home, combined with heat gain/loss and environmental circumstances, will provide a great estimate for what size AC unit you need.
But, that’s not all. You also have to consider:
- The amount of shade or sun entering the room
- How many people regularly occupy the room
- If the unit is used in a kitchen
- The direction of the airflow
- The number, age, condition, the orientation of windows
MYTH 2: Closing vents in unoccupied rooms increases the efficiency of your A/C
Your unit is still spending energy trying to cool that part of your house. This is because most A/C units operate as central air systems that distribute air throughout the entire home. Maintain proper airflow by keeping interior doors and vents open to help air circulate.
MYTH 3: Turning off A/C when you leave your home increases energy efficiency.
It makes sense, just like you turn off the lights in a room you’re no longer using. The truth is, this forces your A/C system to work harder to cool off your home once you’re back, as temperatures have probably risen, especially in the summer. Instead, adjust the temperature gradually by turning it up a few degrees higher before you leave the house.
You may also want to look into smart thermostats, which allow you to change the temperature while you’re away or even adjust automatically based on your schedule.
MYTH 4: Windows and doors don’t impact energy loss
Windows and doors hold the keys to summer energy savings since they are responsible for 25% to 30% of cooling energy use in your home. Make sure your windows are sealed, insulated, and have heat-resistant glass, and use shades to keep sunlight out. As for your doors, maintain proper airflow by keeping them open to help cool your home faster.
Now that we’ve debunked some of the most common A/C and energy-saving myths, we hope you feel more in charge of your electric bills and use these tips to save the most in the hottest months of the year.
If you’re experiencing higher than usual energy bills, give us a call. We can help you save money and stay cool all summer long!
