Summer spikes in temperature bring hefty energy bills and strain your HVAC system. But with smart strategies, you can stay cool and save money.
1. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats adapt to your schedule, optimizing cooling when you’re home and backing off when you’re not. They can lower summer energy usage by 10–15%. A quick win that pays for itself.
2. Seal & Insulate, from Attic to Basement
Air leaks around doors, windows, attics, and crawl spaces undermine HVAC efforts. Adding weatherstripping, caulking, and extra insulation, or contracting it through Unique Air, can reduce cooling loss by up to 30%.
3. Shade Windows & Use Ceiling Fans
Solar heat gain through windows adds unnecessary load. Use blinds, shades, or heat-reflective window film. Ceiling fans boost comfort, allowing you to raise the thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing.
4. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Monthly filter changes, plus an annual professional tune-up, ensure your system runs smoothly. A clean, well-serviced unit uses 5–15% less energy than one neglected over the same period.
5. Optimize AC Unit Placement & Condition
In Gastonia’s humid summers, keep the outdoor unit free of debris and clear of overhanging branches. Good airflow helps maintain peak SEER (efficiency) ratings and keeps energy costs down.
6. Consider Zoning Systems or Variable-Speed Units
Zoning lets you cool only occupied areas; variable-speed compressors adjust output to match cooling needs precisely. Both options lead to better comfort and lower energy use, ask Unique Air for solutions tailored to your home.
7. Incorporate Passive Cooling Strategies
Use light-colored roof coatings to reflect heat. Plant shade trees strategically and consider solar attic fans. Such passive methods cut heat gain before your HVAC even kicks on.
8. Use Ceiling Fans to Raise Thermostat
Ceiling fans can allow you to raise the thermostat by around 4°F with no drop in comfort. The breeze helps evaporate sweat, making it feel up to 8°F cooler.
9. Schedule Cooling During Off‑Peak Hours
Try pre-cooling your home early morning or late evening, then allowing the house to drift up 2–3 degrees during peak afternoon hours. Avoiding peak electricity rates can reduce both energy use and your bill.
10. Upgrade to Eco‑Friendly Refrigerants & SEER Standards
Older AC units may use high-GWP refrigerants and be less efficient. Newer models with low‑GWP refrigerants and higher SEER ratings can cut energy use and lower environmental impact.
Take Control of Your Summer Comfort Today
If you want to keep your home comfortable and your energy bills in check this summer, now is the perfect time to schedule a professional HVAC tune-up or energy assessment with Unique Air. Their expert technicians can help optimize your system’s efficiency, identify areas to improve insulation and sealing, and recommend the best energy-saving upgrades tailored specifically to your home.
Don’t wait for another heatwave to hit; taking proactive steps today means a cooler, more energy-efficient home tomorrow.
Bonus Summer Tips:
- Watch Your Thermostat Setting: 75°F when home, 78°F when away is a smart starting point.
- Upgrade Home Sealing: Testing for drafts and sealing can reduce the cooling load significantly.
- Choose The Right AC Unit: The most important factors and things to consider before installing AC in your home or replacing your existing air conditioning system.