Keep cool for less
Our energy experts review all the ways you can lower your power bill when the heat is on this summer.
Q: We moved into our home last spring. It’s pretty new and seems well-insulated in winter. But it was hot last summer, so we had to run the air conditioning a lot, and the electric bills were a killer. Do you have any tips on how we can cool our home this summer without going broke?
A: In previous columns we’ve discussed some of the easiest ways to make your home more efficient, like reducing solar gains, insulating and ventilating the attic, and sealing air leaks. You may need to focus on inefficiencies in your home’s cooling system. But before we address that, let’s look at some other potential problems.
Do you have a freezer or second refrigerator in the garage? This can be a major energy hog, especially if it’s old and you live in a warmer climate.
Do you have a well? Your pump may be draining your energy use as you rely on it more during the summer. Start by looking for leaks in the system, and if necessary, reduce irrigation.
Do you have a swimming pool? It may be time to overhaul or replace the pool pump. If the pump is in good shape, try putting it on a timer.
If you have central air conditioning or a heat pump, make sure your filter has been changed or recently cleaned. The next step is to call an HVAC contractor for a tune-up and a complete assessment of the system. A tune-up can improve operating efficiency and extend the life of the unit.
A tune-up should include cleaning the condenser coil, a check of the refrigerant levels and a good look at the pump and electrical contacts. Talk to the contractor about the efficiency of the unit. If it’s old, it may be cost-effective to replace it, even if it’s still functional.
Leaky ductwork, which allows cooled air to escape into the attic, walls and crawlspaces of your home, is a common issue with central air systems. Make sure the contractor you choose is capable and willing to provide an expert assessment. A real pro will know how to measure the airflow at each supply and return register using a device called a duct blaster. If you’re not getting cool air to the rooms that need it, the contractor may be able to make modifications to the ductwork.
If you cool your home with window units, be sure to close off the room to make the cooling as effective as possible. Make sure you have the right sized unit for the room. A unit that’s too big will cool the room before the humidity has been lowered, which will make it feel less cool, while a unit that’s too small will have to work harder.
If your window unit isn’t cooling properly, it may need to be replaced. Newer models are more efficient, and if you buy an Energy Star-certified unit, you’ll make the most of your cooling dollars.
Send questions to Energy Q&A, South Carolina Living, 808 Knox Abbott Drive, Cayce, SC 29033, or email energyqa@scliving.coop.
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