When it comes to the Champaign weather, it can be difficult to manage keeping your home cool without spending a lot. According to the Department of Energy, the ordinary homeowner will spend about half their energy bill on their heating and cooling needs, around $875 a year. However, if you’d like to possibly reduce that number, it could be time to consider scheduling air conditioner service and a consultation to talk through a potential upgrade for your home’s air conditioning system.
In a recent USA Today article, Department of Energy Deputy Assistant Secretary Kathleen Hogan says “Residents should strongly consider replacing a central air more than a dozen years old. Switching it out for one that carries an ENERGY STAR® rating could pare your cooling costs by roughly 30 percent.”
Your savings will be dependent on the age of the air conditioner, but typically, getting a new air conditioner takes strategic advantage of the technological improvements made that make heating and cooling equipment more efficient.
Of course, newer, energy efficient air conditioners can help take a chunk out of your heating and cooling costs, but don’t diminish the importance of routine air conditioner service. Hogan and Dan DiClerico, senior editor of Consumer Reports also say that cleaning and changing air filters can significantly improve the performance of your air conditioner.
Also cited as critical keys to keeping your home cool without costing a lot:
- Add insulation to your attic
- Make sure your home is well-sealed
- Seal your ductwork to make sure the cool air is going where it’s supposed to
- Set your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit; 26 degrees Celsius
- Close vents in rooms that are unoccupied
- Run a ceiling fan in the space you are in
Whether you’re hoping to set up air conditioner service or want to find out more about your replacement air conditioner options, give the pros at Chief/Bauer Service Experts a call at 217-689-2469 or set up an appointment with us through our online scheduler.