The kids are back at school, and Sundays are back to being football days. Though the days have begun to get cooler, Michigan is notorious for having surges of hot days left in its system. Most people won’t turn off their AC units yet. Though the nights will be cooler, some days will still be hot. Keep reading to learn our tips to go easy on your AC system this fall while not getting slammed on your utility bill.
Adjust Your Thermostat
During the summer months, 68-72 degrees is typical. Every degree difference has a large impact on your bill. Try pushing the thermostat up 2 degrees. The closer your inside temp is to the outside temp, the less your system will have to work. Of course, make sure to keep the indoors comfortable. Turning your system off and on is harder on your AC in the long run and can even lead to a system failure.
Use Your Thermostat’s Auto Settings
Most thermostats have two settings: on - meaning the air will constantly be flowing, and auto - meaning the system will run until your home gets up to the right temp then it shuts off. The auto setting will keep your air conditioner running only when it is necessary. Keeping your system on auto will also save you the headache of daily adjustments due to daily weather shifts.
Use Your Ceiling Fans
Stale air feels heavy and uncomfortable. Sometimes, movement in the air is more important than the temperature of that air. Ceiling fans can circulate cool air, so you can more easily work with warmer temps. Ceiling fans help ease your AC need and thus lower your energy bill.
Clear Your Outdoor Unit of Debris
Leaves and branches will begin to fall soon, make sure they don’t hurt your unit. The piles of leaves won’t hurt the middle of your lawn, but a pile surrounding your AC unit can slow airflow. This slowdown makes your system work harder, draw more power, and thus cost you more money.
Check-In with a Professional HVAC Company
After you have taken these steps, call in the professionals. A fall maintenance check-in can help make sure your AC system didn’t take any damage or wear and tear over the season while also prepping your heating system for the cold months to come. Heaney Plumbing and Heating can serve all for your water, and airflow needs to keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient. We bring 50 years of experience with us when we visit your home for maintenance, a repair, or an installation.
Give the Heaney Plumbing & Heating team a call today at (586) 649-6300 to schedule your next appointment.