In sunny Florida, you depend on your cooling system to keep you cool and comfortable whenever outdoor temperatures soar. That can send your energy bills soaring too. These tips from the professionals at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® of Clearwater can help lower your AC costs even in the hottest days of summer, without sacrificing your comfort.

Change Your Air Filter

A dirty filter impedes air circulation and forces your air conditioner to run longer than necessary, wasting your money. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that you change your AC air filter once a month or as needed during hot weather seasons.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

When the weather outside is sweltering hot, it’s tempting to leave your AC running while your away to make sure that you come home to a comfortable environment. Programmable thermostats let you preset temperatures for different times of the day, so you can raise the setting while you’re away and schedule it to return to your ideal temperature by the time that you arrive home at the end of the day.

Use Ceiling Fans

Moving air makes you feel cooler by increasing the amount of evaporation from your skin. Using ceiling fans will not only make you feel up to five degrees cooler but will allow your air conditioner to work more efficiently too. Your AC equipment extracts moisture, as well as heat from the air, and fans help return moist air to the equipment for dehumidifying.

Seal up Your Building Envelope

Weather-stripping drafty windows and doors helps prevent cool air from escaping outdoors. Gaps around plumbing, electrical and gas conduits in exterior walls, basements and attics also waste energy and your money. Seal them up with caulk or spray foam insulation.

Schedule Preventative Maintenance

According to the EPA, having your air conditioner regularly serviced by an HVAC professional is one of the most cost-effective ways to conserve energy and lower your cooling costs. Tune-ups help ensure that all AC components are operating at peak efficiency. Because well-maintained air conditioners last longer and need fewer repairs, you’ll save money down the line as well.

Serving the communities of Pinellas County since 1972, the experts at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® of Clearwater know which products and services are most effective at lowering energy costs even when outdoor temperatures in Florida climb. To learn more money-saving tips or to schedule a service, contact One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® of Clearwater today.