If your Florida air conditioning bills are too high, you’re not alone. With our hot, humid weather, it’s not uncommon to use our AC systems continually in the summer. And because of this, our energy bills can often skyrocket. Fortunately, while turning off your unit usually isn’t an option, there are a few other energy-saving tips you can use to cut energy costs and save some cash.

Here are just a few:

Turn up your thermostat when you’re not home

When you’re at work, grocery shopping or just outside mowing the yard for a long while, turn your thermostat up to at least 80. This will keep your home cool enough that you’re comfortable when you return, but it won’t use up a ton of energy while you’re gone.

Watch how you use your appliances

Using your appliances wisely can save you tons on your Florida air conditioning bills. One big way is to use only cold settings when doing laundry. Hot settings use up energy to warm the water, and it can cause your energy bills to spike. You can also opt to line-dry items rather than running them through the dryer. You can also run your dishwasher only when it’s fully loaded to conserve water and energy.

Unplug equipment, not in use

Your appliances and electronics obviously use less power when they’re turned off, but many people don’t realize that even when they’re turned off and plugged in, they still use up energy. When you’re not using a machine or appliance, always be sure to unplug it completely from the wall. This includes can openers, coffee machines, phone chargers, lamps, toasters and everything in-between –power strips can also draw energy from your outlet, even if nothing is plugged into them.

Replace your filters often

The more clogged your filters are, the harder your AC unit will have to work to cool your home. As a result, your Florida air conditioning bills will skyrocket. To prevent this from happening in your home, be sure to change out your filters at least once every few months. This will definitely cut down on your energy costs, and it will also ensure that your home’s air is dust and allergen-free.

Get the ductwork checked

According to the Consumer Energy Center, duct leaks account for nearly a quarter of all cooling costs annually. If you want to find a great way to cut down on your energy bills, then have a professional come to evaluate and inspect your ductwork. If there are any leaks, breaks or loose areas, have them fixed or replaced. Though it may come with an up-front price tag, the savings will be well worth it in the long run.

Invest in good insulation

Insulation isn’t just for keeping your home warm in the winter; it’s what helps keep the cool, dry air inside your home – instead of leaking out through the roof and walls. Good insulation can make it easier for your AC unit to cool the home and, consequently, can reduce your overall cooling costs. If you’re not sure if your insulation is doing its job, have a professional come evaluate it as soon as possible.

Install fans in every room

Ceiling fans help AC units function more efficiently. The fans help circulate cool air, allowing each room to be cooled more effectively and evenly. If you’re looking for ways to cut down on energy costs, then be sure to install a fan in every room and living area. (And make sure you get the right size fan for the space, too!)

Install window shading and light-blocking curtains

Sunlight can warm up your home very quickly and easily, which makes your AC unit work infinitely harder just to cool a room. To prevent this, consider installing shading or tinting on your windows (at least the sun-facing ones), and decorate your windows with light-blocking curtains that will keep out all of the sun’s harsh rays.

Want to keep your Florida air conditioning bills low this summer? Call Air Zero for a no-obligation consultation! We’ll evaluate your AC unit, your ductwork, your insulation and more.