How AL Homeowners Can Stay Cool and Save Money This Summer

A woman is sitting in front of a fan holding a piece of paper.

Summer is only two months away – And while there’s still time to enjoy the lovely Spring weather, it’s important to get ready for the intense heat that engulfs Alabama during the Summer months. Luckily, Alabama homeowners are able to escape the heat with air conditioning. 


Unfortunately, it usually comes at a cost... 


Due to the increased demand for electricity in Summer, utility companies can charge homeowners more for energy usage. To help combat the financial impact felt by Alabama families, we’ve compiled a list of ways you can save money and keep your home cool.


Make Sure Your AC Unit Is Running Smoothly


If you can keep your AC unit running efficiently, you can reduce your energy usage and save more on monthly utility bills. Here are a couple of things you can do to improve your AC unit’s efficiency:


Make sure your home is properly ventilated: 

  • Install ceiling fans to keep cool air circulating
  • Make sure your AC vents are open (even in closed rooms)
  • Check to see if your AC vents are being blocked by furniture
  • Open windows at night to improve circulation
  • Use exhaust fans in your bathroom and kitchen to remove humid and stagnant air


Block out the sun’s rays:

  • Installing curtains, blinds or reflective films in rooms with windows can keep them cooler
  •  While they are more permanent, shutters, shade trees and awnings can also shade your home from the incoming sunlight


Make sure your home is insulated:

  • Check your doors and windows for possible drafts (weather stripping or caulk can be used to seal potential gaps)
  • Make sure your home’s ceilings, attic and floors are properly insulated (insulation helps retain cool air while keeping hot air out)


Install a smart thermostat:

  • Smart (or programmable) thermostats can increase your home’s temperature when you're not there. For several hours a day, your AC can run with less effort, saving energy and cutting costs. This is particularly helpful for people who commute to work, or travel frequently.


Try not to use appliances that create heat:

  • Try not to use your stove or laundry units during the hottest parts of the day, as this can increase heat within your home, making your AC work harder
  • Replace your incandescent bulbs with LED ones, which produce less heat
  • Unplugging unused appliances can also reduce heat within the home


The Benefits of Routine Maintenance


Routine maintenance is crucial in keeping your home cool during the Summer months. Some of those benefits include:

  • Optimized airflow – Routine maintenance ensures that your ducts and HVAC system are working properly, which improves airflow. Better airflow means that your AC doesn't have to work as hard to cool your home, which saves on energy and monthly utility bills. 
  • Less chance for AC breakdowns – Regular cleanings and inspections reduce the likelihood that your AC will experience a breakdown, which is very helpful during hot Summer months. 
  • Extends the lifespan of HVAC systems – Regular inspections and preventive maintenance stop the problems before they start, extending the overall lifespan of your HVAC system. 


What Does Routine Maintenance Look Like?


Routine maintenance includes: 

  • Replacing dirty air filters (recommended every one to three months)
  • Checking your refrigerant levels
  • Testing your thermostat
  • Ductwork cleanings (recommended twice a year)
  • HVAC and ductwork inspections


While you homeowners can replace their air filters, it’s recommended that you seek a professional HVAC technician for other forms of regular maintenance. HVAC technicians will have the tools needed to properly check your refrigerant levels and test your thermostat. Plus, they’ll be able to easily identify any problems with your HVAC unit and ducts during inspections.


Need a Professional HVAC Technician? Give Our Team a Call!


If your HVAC system needs routine maintenance and inspections, C & G Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help! Located in Smiths Station, C & G Heating & Air Conditioning serves several communities along the Alabama-Georgia border including Phenix City, Auburn, Opelika and Columbus.


Our team of experienced HVAC technicians can help answer any questions or concerns about your HVAC system, all while performing top-of-the-line maintenance. For more information, give us a call at 334-489-3329. To learn more about other services, including HVAC installation, repair and ductwork maintenance, click the link here.

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