How to Keep Your Birmingham Home Cool Without Breaking the Bank
When it comes to the Birmingham climate, it can be difficult to manage keeping your home cool without spending a lot. According to the Department of Energy, the typical homeowner will spend nearly half their energy bill on their heating and cooling needs, around $875 a year. However, if you’d like to try and reduce that number, it may be time to consider scheduling air conditioner service and a consultation to discuss an 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 usually, 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 could help take a chunk out of your energy costs, but don’t diminish the importance of routine air conditioner service. Hogan and Dan DiClerico, senior editor of Consumer Reports also note that cleaning and changing air filters can drastically improve the performance of your air conditioner.
Also cited as important keys to keeping your home cool without spending 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 to the right places
- Set your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit; 26 degrees Celsius
- Close vents in rooms that are empty
- Use a ceiling fan in the space you are in
Whether you’re looking to set up air conditioner service or want to learn more about your replacement air conditioner options, give the pros at Norrell Service Experts a call at 205-267-0023 or set up an appointment with us through our online scheduler.
