Letting the air conditioning run for most of the day is common during the hot summer months. It produces a consistent amount of cooling and keeps the indoors at a comfortable level, which is especially important in the South. However, without the proper precautions, you could overwork the system and find yourself calling for HVAC repairs. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to save some money during the humid heatwaves.

How to Lower Cooling Costs During a Georgia Summer

1. Seal All Leaks

The wooden frames around your doors and windows tend to expand and contract with the heat. This can create openings that allow for air leaks, wasting energy and forcing the unit to work harder. Caulking the edges should help to restore the seal, creating a barrier that keeps the air inside and reduces the strain on the system. 

2. Lower the Thermostat

It’s common to think that lowering the thermostat will cool down a room faster. The issue is that the fan motors only have a single speed, which means they’ll just run longer in order to achieve the optimal temperature. 

Turning it up by one or two degrees will allow the system to produce the required comfort without overexerting itself. If you have a programmable thermostat, you can save even more money and reduce the need for HVAC repairs. Simply turn the temperature up seven to 10 degrees while you're away from home and schedule it to cool down before you get back.

3. Close the Curtains

Direct sunlight contains a lot of heat and could cause the interior temperature to rise at different parts of the day. Tracking its path and closing the curtains before it reaches the windows will prevent an unexpected spike. The material will absorb most of the heat and ensure the room maintains a more stable atmosphere. 

4. Avoid Cooking Indoors

Turning on the oven can add heat and drive up the indoor temperature, too. Preparing meals on an outdoor grill is an ideal alternative. You can also prepare more dinner salads and other cold meals or use appliances that produce less heat, such as an electric griddle or slow cooker.

Ensure your home maintains a consistent temperature by securing HVAC repairs from A-Team Services Heating & Air. Located in Marietta, GA, this family-owned company has been in the business since 1999 and services air conditioning units for both residential and commercial clients. Their contractors are highly trained and make themselves available 24/7 when a problem just can't wait. Call (770) 343-3507 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for additional information on HVAC repair.