Summer is great, but it means increased reliance on air conditioning, leaving you with higher energy bills. According to Comfy Living, the global HVAC market size was worth a whopping $240.8 billion in 2019. Even with your increased individual reliance on HVAC, there are steps you can take to upgrade it to maximize energy efficiency and save money. You can stay comfortable without breaking the bank by making smart choices and implementing energy-saving strategies. Read on to learn how to save money on air conditioning this summer.

1. Optimize HVAC System Efficiency

An HVAC system operating at its optimal efficiency consumes less energy. So, the first step to saving money on summer air conditioning is to ensure your HVAC system is in tip-top condition. An experienced HVAC contractor can conduct a thorough inspection to identify potential issues or improvements. Have them check electrical connections, clean or replace air filters, and calibrate the thermostat for accurate temperature control. These simple steps will help ensure your AC runs smoothly, preventing wasted energy.

2. Switch to a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat automatically adjusts your home's temperature according to your preset schedule. Additionally, it provides the flexibility of remote operation. By having an HVAC contractor upgrade your HVAC with a smart thermostat, you can effortlessly control the temperature and effectively manage your home's air conditioning, whether you're home or not.

3. Turn the Thermostat Up

While investing in a smart thermostat is a step in the right direction, you can do one more thing to lower your summer air conditioning costs: turn it up! Setting your thermostat higher means your HVAC system runs less frequently, as it only kicks in when the temperature exceeds the set point. The less your AC operates, the less energy it consumes, decreasing overall energy consumption.

4. Enhance Insulation

Although often overlooked, adequate insulation promotes efficient air conditioning. Proper insulation helps your HVAC system work more efficiently and reduces the strain on it. An HVAC company can help assess your home's insulation levels, ensuring that cool air stays inside during the summer and warm air is retained during the winter. By sealing gaps, insulating walls and attics, and addressing leaks, you can prevent air leaks that result in energy loss.

5. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Equipment

Outdated HVAC systems can consume excessive energy, leading to high utility bills. So, if your home is still running on that HVAC you installed a decade ago, it's time to upgrade. An HVAC expert can guide you in choosing energy-efficient models designed to meet current industry standards. Upgrading to energy-efficient equipment can achieve substantial long-term savings while enjoying enhanced comfort.

6. Implement Zoning Systems

Do you live in a large house? Your HVAC system has to work twice as hard to cool your space. However, you can implement a zoning system to promote HVAC efficiency and reduce summer air conditioning costs. A zoning system allows you to divide your home into different areas or zones, each with independent temperature controls. An HVAC contractor can install separate thermostats and dampers to regulate the airflow in each zone. This customization lets you cool only the areas in use, reducing energy waste and saving money. Zoning systems benefit larger homes or households with varying temperature preferences.

7. Get Some Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are a cost-effective way to improve air circulation and reduce reliance on air conditioning. By using ceiling fans in conjunction with your AC, you can raise the thermostat setting by a few degrees without compromising comfort. This small adjustment can lead to significant energy savings without sacrificing coolness. Have an electrician install ceiling fans strategically to complement your HVAC system.

8. Minimize Heat Inside

The hotter your home is during summer, the harder your HVAC has to work and, consequently, the higher the energy bills. While there's nothing you can do about summer's overall heat, you can minimize the heat you create indoors. For instance, instead of using your oven during the day, use it at night when temperatures are cooler, reducing the workload for your HVAC.

Upgrading your home's HVAC with the help of an HVAC company can result in significant energy-saving costs during the summer months. By optimizing system efficiency, upgrading to a smart thermostat, installing ceiling fans, and implementing zoning systems while reducing heat usage indoors whenever you can, you'll enjoy a comfortable indoor environment while staying on top of your energy bills. Ready to upgrade your HVAC to reduce summer air conditioning costs? Get in touch with John H. Coleman Co to get started.