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August in Wallace is notoriously hot, and for homeowners, that means one thing: rising electricity bills. Air conditioners run nearly nonstop, and inefficient cooling can quickly turn a manageable utility bill into a financial headache. The good news is that there are several practical steps you can take to keep your home cool without overloading your wallet. From sealing your home to upgrading your HVAC system, every action can make a noticeable difference in your energy consumption.
1. Upgrade Your Insulation
One of the simplest ways to reduce cooling costs is by ensuring your home is properly insulated. Many older homes, especially in rural areas, were built with minimal insulation, meaning cooled air can escape quickly while hot air infiltrates. Adding insulation in your attic, walls, and floors creates a barrier that keeps conditioned air inside and the heat out. Even small improvements, like insulating ductwork in unconditioned spaces, can prevent your system from working overtime.
2. Seal Ductwork and Air Leaks
Leaky ducts are a major culprit behind high energy bills. If air escapes before it reaches your living spaces, your HVAC system must run longer to maintain comfort, consuming more electricity. Have a professional inspect your ductwork for leaks, gaps, or disconnected sections, particularly in crawl spaces or attics, which are common in rural homes. Additionally, check around windows, doors, and electrical outlets for drafts, and use weather stripping or caulk to seal gaps. A well-sealed home maintains cool air more efficiently, reducing energy waste.
3. Use Zoning Systems
Not all areas of your home are used equally, yet many traditional HVAC systems cool the entire house evenly. Zoning systems allow you to direct cooling only to the rooms you use most, preventing energy waste in empty areas. In a rural home, where square footage may be larger and rooms less frequently occupied, this strategy can significantly reduce electricity consumption during Wallace’s hottest month. Smart thermostats can also help by learning your schedule and adjusting temperatures automatically for maximum efficiency.
4. Optimize Thermostat Settings
Setting your thermostat a few degrees higher during peak heat can save more than you might think. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests keeping your thermostat at 78°F when you’re home and a bit higher when you’re away. Even a small adjustment reduces the workload on your air conditioner, translating into lower energy bills. Pair this with ceiling fans to circulate air, which allows you to feel cooler without lowering the thermostat further.
5. Maintain Your HVAC System
A well-maintained air conditioner uses less energy. Dirty filters, clogged coils, and neglected components force your system to work harder, especially during extended periods of heat. Schedule a professional inspection before the hottest month, and replace filters regularly to ensure optimal airflow and efficiency. Rural homes often experience more dust and debris, so keeping the system clean is especially important.
6. Manage Sunlight and Ventilation
Solar heat gain can dramatically increase cooling costs. Use blinds, shades, or reflective window films to block the sun’s heat during the hottest parts of the day. In the evenings, natural ventilation can help cool your home without running the air conditioner. Open windows and use fans to draw in cooler outside air, then close them once temperatures rise again in the morning.
At Gideon Heating & Air Conditioning, we like to say that our work isn’t just good—it’s Gideon Guaranteed! Contact us today to schedule HVAC services.