1) Plant Trees
Plant trees around your house to provide shade (block sun from directly hitting your roof). This recommendation makes a lot of sense if you plan to be in your house for a while.
2) Install Window Films
Window films are transparent sheets that reflect heat and sun rays to prevent the heat from being transmitted through the window glass.
3) Adjust the AC Temperature When Away
Consider raising your air conditioner’s thermostat setting to 78 or 79 degrees when you’re at home. (and an even higher temperature while you’re out of the house or at work). An automatic or smart thermostat can also be a good investment. According to the U.S. Energy Department, conserving or reducing energy when you’re away from home is one of the most effective ways to save on your monthly AC costs (especially during the Florida summer). An automatic thermostat can adjust the temperature based on a predefined schedule. Newer thermostats, such as Google Nest Learning Thermostat, are also quite popular and effective by allowing control of the thermostat via an app on your mobile phone.
4) Maintain Your AC System Properly
Maintaining your AC system will allow the unit to run as efficiently as possible. Air Care recommends bi-annual maintenance on residential HVAC systems. Our system checkup / tuneup fee is $69.50.
5) Install Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are a great way to feel cooler. (especially in bedrooms at night)
6) Clean Vents & Repair Ductwork
7) Seal your Home to Protect Against Leaky Windows & Doors
Not only does proper sealing save you money on running your AC, but house sealing also protects your home during hurricanes and tornadoes.
8) Replace Older Windows and Sliding Glass Doors
Was your Tampa Bay / Clearwater / St. Pete house built in the 1950s, 1960s, or 1970s? If you have older windows / doors, then your house is not as energy efficient as it could / should be. Not only will upgrading your windows and sliding glass doors save you money on your AC, but newer windows and doors will also better protect your home during hurricanes. (consider impact or hurricane windows for maximum protection and energy savings). In addition, please be sure to ask your window company about low-emissivity, or “low-e” glass options. Impact windows are quite expensive so you might consider slowly upgrading your windows and doors over time by replacing 1 sliding glass door or window per year.
