If you’re dreading the summer heat and the electricity bills that come with it, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are several ways you can save money on cooling this season. Check out these energy-efficient cooling solutions and tips that’ll help you save money this summer.
High-Efficiency Air Conditioners
High-efficiency air conditioners cool your home more efficiently than regular air conditioners. Compared to traditional models, which are typically around a 10 SEER, a high-efficiency AC with a SEER rating in the upper 20s can reduce your cooling costs by a significant percentage. The secret is in their advanced technologies like variable-speed compressors that adjust cooling power for optimal comfort without energy-wasting spikes.
Ductless Air Conditioners
Ductless air conditioners, also known as mini-splits, are champions when it comes to comfort and energy efficiency. They don’t require ducts like traditional systems, which can lose up to 30% of cooled air before it reaches your rooms. With ductless ACs, each room gets its own air handling unit, allowing you to cool only the spaces you’re using. This zone control prevents energy waste resulting from cooling unused areas. Additionally, ductless ACs are often inverter-driven, meaning they adjust their power usage to match the cooling demand, further reducing energy consumption and saving you money. Again, you want to aim for a SEER rating in the high 20’s to really reduce costs.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps do double duty – and we don’t just mean that they have both cooling and heating capabilities. They can help slash costs for both those functions. Unlike traditional air conditioners that generate cool air, heat pumps move existing heat from one place to another. In the summer, they grab heat from your warm house and deposit it outside, keeping you comfortable. During winter, the process reverses, pulling heat from the warm outdoor air (even in cold climates). This heat transfer method uses significantly less energy than traditional systems.
Tips to Reduce Your Cooling Load
In addition to choosing an AC unit that is highly efficient, you should take other steps to reduce your home’s cooling load and stress on your system. This includes:
- Insulation and Sealing: Proper insulation in your attic, walls, and around windows and doors can significantly reduce the amount of heat that enters your home.
- Shading: Planting trees, shrubs, and vines around your house can provide shade, helping to keep the interior cooler. You can also use awnings, blinds, or curtains to block sunlight from entering your home.
- Natural Ventilation: Ceiling fans can help to circulate air around your home and create a windchill effect.
- Regular Service: Routine maintenance helps it work optimally. Cleaning of the parts, including the condenser coil, further reduce operating costs.
- Setback Temperature: Program your thermostat to automatically adjust to a warmer temperature when you are away or asleep. Keep in mind, the bigger the change in temperature, the higher the demand on the AC and the higher the energy consumption.
Invest in Energy-Efficient Cooling Solutions
While the initial investment might be slightly higher, the long-term savings on your energy bills make high-efficiency air conditioners a cost-effective choice for the budget-minded and environmentally conscious homeowner. Don’t forget that regular maintenance of your cooling system also improves efficiency and saves you money in the long run.
Contact us to discuss energy-efficient solutions for your home or to schedule AC maintenance.
Delta Air Systems Ltd. has been serving the HVAC needs of the Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, and Guelph regions for over 65 years. We are committed to providing our clients with reliable service and quality equipment.
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