When Temperatures Get High, Keep Your Bills Low
Special to The Truth
Do higher temperatures
have to mean higher energy bills? The answer is no. There
are numerous ways to keep your home cool and bills low in
summer.
After a few months of
disuse, it is vital to check that your air conditioning
system is still working in an efficient and optimal manner.
If you have a central air conditioning system, for peace of
mind, you might want to have your system checked by an HVACR
professional. In order to save, be sure to shop around for
special deals, which are not difficult to find for seasonal
preventive maintenance.
Understand however, that
the proficiency of HVACR technicians varies greatly. When
searching for the right HVACR technician for your home, one
way to make certain that the job will be done properly and
effectively is by hiring a professional certified by North
American Technician Excellence (NATE), the nation’s largest
certification body for HVACR technicians. NATE-certified
technicians are qualified to properly install and service
equipment, which means maximum home comfort and energy
savings.
Once a technician has
inspected your system for efficiency, there are a number of
things you can do to keep energy bills low:
• Clean your air filters.
Check them every couple of weeks and change them at least
twice in the season, or as directed by the manufacturer.
• Don’t obstruct airflow
around air conditioner units -- keep them clear of plants
and debris.
• Raise the thermostat
about 5 degrees. Each degree you raise the thermostat will
save you a percentage off your cooling energy bill.
• Compare energy bills
from last year. If your costs have significantly increased,
simply contact a qualified HVACR technician -- he or she can
help determine the source of the problem.
Remember, having an
energy-approved, eco-friendly, high-efficiency product does
not mean automatic money and energy savings. Proper
installation, service and maintenance are important, too.
So, do yourself a favor and request the service of an HVAC
contractor who employs NATE-certified technicians. To locate
one, visit the Homeowners section of the NATE website at
www.natex.org, then enter your zip code on the locator map.
By taking proactive
measures, you can rest assured that this season you will be
cool while saving money and energy.
Courtesy StatePoint |