Lowering summer HVAC costs can have a major effect on the bottom line of any business. In many cases, keeping the premises cool in a hot summer climate can account for more than half of a building’s total energy expenses. There’s good news, however, and that’s the fact that lowering summer HVAC costs is an achievable goal if you take proven steps that not only reduce energy consumption but help enhance indoor comfort too. Here’s a list of things that can be done to lower cooling expenses all summer long.
Schedule regular AC maintenance.
Don’t skip professional checkups of your air-conditioning system. A list of preventative-maintenance procedures keeps your system running at the manufacturer’s efficiency specs. In addition to lowering summer HVAC costs, a comprehensive inspection by a qualified professional service technician helps reveal any marginal components or other issues that may affect monthly costs and/or system reliability.
Have filters changed regularly.
Clogged, dirty air filters are a major factor in higher air-conditioning costs. Ask your HVAC contractor about the best filter type and the optimum schedule for changing filters to support maximum airflow and cool comfort, and to lower summer HVAC costs.
Install ceiling fans.
The effect of moving air enhances the sensation of cooling for occupants, making air-conditioned spaces feel as much as 4 degrees cooler. Today’s efficient ceiling fans consume only a fraction of the energy that an air conditioner uses. The use of ceiling fans to augment air conditioning allows you to raise thermostat settings a few degrees while still maintaining comfort while lowering summer HVAC costs.
Block the sun.
Solar energy in the form of sunlight streaming through windows during the summer is a major contributor to higher indoor temperatures and longer air-conditioning cycles, which increase energy consumption. Effective and economical passive methods for lowering summer HVAC costs include installing awnings, sun shades, and blinds on windows that face to the south or west.
For more information about successful strategies for lowering summer HVAC costs, contact the professionals at Jackson & Sons.
