How to Keep Your AC Bill Low

There’s something special about summer in Southern California. Some of our favorite things include warm evenings, weekend drives, and the sound of the ocean. Unfortunately, for all the good in summer, there are a few drawbacks; higher than usual energy bills being one of them. Though a little spike in your energy bill is normal, expected even, we’re sharing some tips for how to keep your AC bill low.

Leaking Ductwork

If you’re seeing higher than normal energy bills, a major factor could be leaking ductwork. If you have central AC, any treated air that flows through your home is delivered through ductwork. Over time, cracks and fissures can form in your ducts. This is a problem because your AC works to treat your air, even the smallest of cracks can allow warm and untreated air in. This untreated air will force your system to work twice as hard to make the same amount of cool air you expect. If you haven’t had your ductwork looked at, it’s time to schedule an appointment to ensure no untreated air is allowed to enter.

Change Your Air Filter

When was the last time you changed your air filter? If you can’t answer this question, it’s definitely time to change it. Any air that flows through your home must first pass through an air filter. This filter catches airborne contaminates that could otherwise end up in your lungs. Over time, the filter will get full. Once the air filter is too full, the HVAC system needs to work harder to push air through it; which will increase your bills. To keep your AC bill low, it’s best to change your air filter at least twice every year, once before furnace season and once before AC season. If your HVAC system is inaccessible an HVAC tech can change your air filter for you while they perform a tune-up.

Schedule a Tune-Up

In the same vein as the air filter, when was the last time you scheduled a tune-up? At Service Champions, we recommend scheduling a tune-up twice per year. Once for your furnace before furnace season, and once for your AC before AC season. During an AC tune-up, our expertly trained HVAC technicians will test every part of it and make sure every piece is running at peak efficiency. They will also expertly clean your system and advise you of any further maintenance you may need.

Other Things You Can Do

There are some natural ways to keep your AC bill low. They’re all easy and don’t take up too much time.

• Say “Bye” to Your Stove – We’re not advocating for getting rid of your stove, just not using it as much during the summer. Instead, try out some crockpot, instant pot, or barbeque recipes! It’s no secret your stove an oven generates a lot of heat. Keep that heat away by turning to some alternative cooking methods that will keep your kitchen—and the rest of your home—cool.
• Close the Blinds – This goes for curtains too! During peak hours, try to remember to shut your curtains or blinds. This will act as sunglasses for your home; keeping out the hottest rays that will significantly warm your home. If you want to take a step further, invest in some blackout curtains.
• Let Some Fresh Air In – After dark that is! Once the sun sets and the outside temperature is manageable, open your windows and let some fresh, cool air in. Just be sure to turn off your AC when you do this. By allowing cool air to circulate you’re giving the AC a desperately needed break and introducing fresh air into your home. Win win.
• Invest in a Programmable Thermostat – Another thing that is greatly beneficial is installing a programmable thermostat. If you work outside of the home, or come and go often, a programmable thermostat can save tons of money. Simply program the times you’re gone, and the house can remain a warmer temperature, thus allowing your HVAC system to take a rest.

Still Seeing High Bills? Call the Experts at Service Champions!

Do you want to know more things you can do to keep your AC bill low? The HVAC experts at Service Champions are here to help! We are the only Diamond Certified HVAC in Sothern California. We happily serve parts of Los Angeles, Orange, and Riverside counties. To schedule service, reach out to one of our friendly call center representatives today or click here to book online.