As parts of the country burn at triple-digit temperatures, Americans turn on air conditioning and run out of electricity bills.
Due to the rapid rise in electricity production costs, billing, which would normally rise during this period, is skyrocketing. According to the US Energy Information Administration, nearly 90% of US homes use some form of air conditioning for cooling.The latest of the administration weather Shows that this summer’s average home electricity price has risen 4.7% compared to last summer.
Here are some tips for managing your cooling costs:
Seasonal adjustments help keep the central air conditioning system running smoothly. Technicians usually check the refrigerant level and clean the cooling coil. “This will improve air conditioning and keep costs down,” said Adam Cooper, senior director of customer solutions. Edison Electric Institute, A group that represents an electric power company owned by an investor.
If you delay maintenance, you may have to wait longer for service during hot weather.However, at least you can change the system air filter Keep the cool air flowing to keep the unit functioning efficiently.
Close blinds and shades during the day Avoid sunlight..You can also try Plastic film It adheres to windows and blocks sunlight. You can have a professional install it or you can buy a do-it-yourself kit (about $ 10 per window). The Department of Energy’s “Energy Saving” website suggests that the film also blocks the heat of the winter sun, making it ideal for areas with long cool seasons.
Airy windows and doors that cool the house in the winter can also heat the house in the summer, so seal them with weatherstrips, caulking, or spray foam.
Air-conditioning contractor Richard Treshay, who appears on the TV show “This Old House,” says that proper insulation is especially important to keep the house cool and dry in hot climates. Consider an energy “audit” to identify areas that require more insulation to ensure that your home is energy efficient. Such an assessment usually costs hundreds of dollars, but some utilities pay for it. To find a qualified contractor, search on our website. Building Performance InstituteAudit and certify recommended technicians work.
Arah Schuur, executive director of the Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnership (NEEP), said low-flow shower heads can save electricity by reducing the amount of water heated. She also said that “smart” power strips can turn off energy to the appliance when not in use.
Ceiling fans help you feel cool and set the thermostat high. According to the Department of Energy, “fans cool people, not rooms,” so they switch off when they’re not at home. Keep your clothes dryer and dishwasher running during cool hours and avoid using the oven on hot days.
Consider a programmable thermostat that will help you manage your cooling system, especially if you are away from home during the day. You can set it to a high temperature while you are out and cool it when you come home. If you choose the “smart” version, which is connected to the internet, you can control it remotely from your mobile phone. The utility may provide incentives or discounts to consumers who install thermostats.
Some utilities register smart thermostats and pay customers to attend energy-saving events when demand is high.Arizona Public Service pays customers via invoice credit if the utility allows the smart thermostat to be raised up to 4 times “Cool Rewards” Summer event. The program is limited to 20 events per summer, each lasting up to 3 hours.
If your cooling system is aging, consider investing in a replacement, as the new model is much more efficient, Trethewey said. He said there are now more options, such as a new heat pump system that uses “inverter” technology to cool the house in the summer (and warm the house in the winter). “It’s like cruise control,” he said. Several states and utilities, including New York, Financial incentives To install a heat pump.
The new cooling system can cost thousands of dollars, depending on the type of unit, the size of the house, and other variables. Donald Brandt, a Fellow of ASHRAE, a group of experts in heating, refrigeration and air conditioning, said he expects to pay between $ 8,000 and $ 12,000.
According to Brant, a residential air conditioner unit can last about 20 years if properly maintained.
Do you live in an apartment?Find a window air conditioner that fits the federal government Energy star standard. Units are typically available for hundreds to up to $ 1,000, depending on the size you need.
Here are some questions and answers about the summer cooling bill:
How can I avoid a significant increase in electricity prices in the summer?
I have a question about “level” billing. To avoid shaking customers with volatile invoices, utilities often agree to charge a flat monthly fee and settle the difference in payments payable once a year. Generally, your account must be in good condition to qualify.
If you’re having trouble paying your invoice, the federal government Low-income household energy support program..To find out if you are eligible, please contact the appropriate distributor below Your condition..
Can I really save money by raising the thermostat in the summer?
According to the Edison Institute, raising the thermostat once in the summer will save you 2% on your electricity bill. The Ministry of Energy It’s a good idea to set the thermostat to a comfortable height when you’re at home (aiming at 78 degrees) and a few degrees higher when you’re away.
