How to Stay Chill (and Save Money) During a Heatwave
When summer heatwaves hit Cincinnati and the Tri-State area, keeping your home cool can feel like a full-time job. The good news? You don’t have to sweat your energy bills or compromise on comfort. With a few simple, smart tips, you can beat the heat without breaking the bank.
5 Ways to Save Money During Extreme Heat
#1 Check Your Thermostat Settings
Before you do anything else, take a look at your thermostat. Make sure it’s set to cool and consider lowering the temperature by a few degrees. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends an indoor temperature of 75° to 78° during the day to strike a nice balance between comfort and energy savings. If your fan setting is noted as “on,” consider switching it to “auto” so that the fan only runs when the AC is actually cooling.
If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, take advantage of those features. If you set your system to automatically adjust the temperature a few degrees higher while you’re away, it can lead to noticeable savings. When your system runs more efficiently while you’re out, you can afford to keep it a little cooler (and comfortable) during your time spent at home.
#2 Get Smart About Fan Use
Contrary to popular belief, fans don’t actually cool the air. Instead, they help you feel cooler by circulating the air. Ceiling fans should spin counterclockwise in summer to create a refreshing breeze. If you have portable or box fans, place them near the windows in the evening to pull in cooler air from outside. Just remember to turn fans off when you leave a room, as there’s no need to cool empty spaces.
#3 Keep the Sun Out
While sunlight streaming in through the windows may lift your mood, it can also quickly turn your home into a heat box. Closing curtains or blinds during the hottest parts of the day can help keep indoor temperatures down. If you don’t have blackout or reflective curtains, consider purchasing some. They’re a small investment that can make a surprising difference.
#4 Avoid Heating Up the House
It’s easy to forget the impact that home appliances can have on your indoor temperature. The kitchen in particular can become a source of heat if you’re not thoughtful about your cooking routine. Try to avoid using your oven during peak heat hours. Instead, try cold meals, like salads or sandwiches, or grilling outdoors. Running dishwashers and laundry machines in the evening can help, too — that way, they aren’t running and putting off extra heat during the hottest parts of the day.
#5 Check Your Air Filter
A clogged air filter can make your system work harder and with less efficiency. Make sure you’re checking your air filter and changing it at least once a month. If you’re not sure if your air filter is working correctly, it might be time to call in a professional. Scheduling maintenance with a Cincinnati air conditioning repair company like Jansen Heating & Cooling can help keep your AC running smoothly and efficiently through the hottest days of summer.
Still Too Hot? Let’s Talk About Next Steps
If your AC just can’t keep up with the heat, it could be nearing the end of its lifespan. Jansen Heating & Cooling is here to help assess your system and offer affordable options, whether it’s a repair, an upgrade, or even a replacement.
You deserve to relax in a comfortable home without the worry of soaring bills or unexpected breakdowns. If you’re struggling to keep your home cool during a heatwave, consider scheduling a routine maintenance appointment. It’s a small step that could help you and your family get back to staying cool and enjoying summer.