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Cutting Cooling Costs

Carrie

24 June 2008

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Summer weather is here! Whether your home runs on a central air-conditioning system, or each room needs an individual cooling unit, there are several ways to save energy and money.

fan

Central Air-Conditioning System

SEER number. The seasonal energy-efficiency ratio on central A/C systems is commonly referred to as the SEER number. Make sure that the number is 13 or better. If you live in a warmer area, shoot for 14. A high efficiency costs more, but it also costs less to run. Low-efficiency A/C systems work harder, thereby increasing your bills.
Programmable Thermostat. If you don’t already have one, consider installing a programmable thermostat. If no one is going to be in the house, set the temperature at a higher temperature.

Individual Units

Consider size. Pick a unit that fits your room. An air-conditioning unit that is too big for the room will work harder and cost you more.
Consider location. Is the room facing north, south, east or west? With the sun rising from the east, if a window in your room faces that direction, it will be very warm in the morning and cooler at night. Take advantage of ceiling fans. Use the A/C unit during the day and a ceiling fan at night. The same goes for a room that faces west. During the day, keep the room comfortable by using a ceiling fan. While the sun sets and the room warms up, turn on the air-conditioning for a bit.

Other tips

Plant shady trees and shrubs near windows that face the sun – it can save you up to 30% in costs!
If gardening is not your forte, install awnings above windows.
Seal up leaks in your house.
Dark colors absorb heat. A lighter exterior will keep a cooler interior!
Lights produce heat. If you are not in a particular room, keep the lights off.
Electronics such as computers and televisions generate heat. Turn them off when they are not being used.