How To Keep Your AC Bill Low in the Summer in Central Kootenay H, AB

As an Alberta resident, you enjoy short, mild summers with temperatures that rarely rise above 24 degrees Celsius. Still, the intense humidity from frequent rains can make the atmosphere feel much warmer, especially indoors. Buildings lack the constant breeze you’ll feel outdoors. 

So, knowing how to keep the AC bill low in the summer can work wonders for your comfort and wallet. High Point Plumbing, Air Conditioning, and Heating Repair knows all about lowering your energy bills and protecting your HVAC system. We provide reliable AC services in Central Kootenay H, AB, and tips to help limit your cooling system usage. 

Seven Ways to Lower Your AC Bill This Summer

1. Break Out the Box Fans!

Box and oscillating fans are essential for lowering AC costs. Remember how we discussed how indoor air can become somewhat stagnant? That’s a big reason you might feel hot despite otherwise comfortable outdoor temperatures. 

Strategically place your fans near windows to easily circulate fresh, cool air into your building. Otherwise, place them in the center of the rooms you use the most. Don’t forget to set your ceiling fans to turn counterclockwise as well. 

2. Remember Your Windows

Part of learning how to keep your AC bill low in the summer involves preparing your windows. Since the temperatures in Central Kootenay H, Alberta, stay in the 20s, you can open your windows in the morning and at night to welcome fresh air. You can also try these other energy-efficient cooling tips for windows:

• Install window coverings. You can purchase decorative ones or make your own from recycled cardboard and aluminum foil. If you go the DIY route, cut the cardboard to fit the window and cover the outer-facing side with aluminum foil to reflect sunlight. 
• Use the coverings when the sun hits your windows. Part of learning how to keep your AC bill low in the summer means tracking the sun’s movements. Note when the sun hits each window, and secure your coverings in place during those times. 
• Seal drafty areas with caulk. Feel around the edges of each window. If you can detect warm air sneaking inside, apply caulk to block it. 

3. Schedule Duct and HVAC Maintenance in Central Kootenay H, Alberta

Now that you’ve situated your indoor spaces, let’s work on preparing your HVAC equipment. Book an air duct and cooling system maintenance service in Central Kootenay H, Alberta. Your technician will thoroughly inspect and clean both your indoor and outdoor equipment, addressing any necessary minor repairs. 

Maintenance services ensure your system functions flawlessly without using excess energy. That means more comfortable rooms and lower utility bills. 

4. Give Your Outdoor Equipment Some Shade

Once your HVAC technician gives you the go-ahead, find suitable coverage for your outdoor unit to reap additional summer electricity savings. It might sound strange, but shading outdoor appliances protects them from overheating and using more resources to manage their internal temperatures. You can find a decent covering at a nearby home improvement warehouse. 

Remember, your outdoor equipment needs at least half a meter of clearance on all sides. The shady cover shouldn’t suffocate the machinery while shielding it from sunlight. 

5. Upgrade Your Thermostat

When was the last time you calibrated or upgraded your thermostat? If you regularly schedule HVAC maintenance, your technician will typically take care of calibration. However, if you’ve owned the same device for ten or more years, you could benefit from replacing it.

A smart thermostat helps reduce air conditioning bills by allowing you to set personalized temperature settings. That way, you don’t have to worry about whether you remembered to turn the temperature settings down when you head to work. 

6. Run Heated Appliances at Night

One of the most effective home cooling strategies involves waiting to use dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers until nightfall. These appliances generate heat, which triggers your HVAC system to work harder. Nights are much cooler, so the base temperature won’t feel as uncomfortable. 

7. Eliminate Humidity When Possible

Humidity and stagnant air are your comfort’s worst enemy. Numerous rainstorms move through Central Kootenay H, Alberta, bringing over a week’s worth of rain per month. You can start saving money on AC in the summer by investing in a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture, which makes rooms feel significantly warmer.