How to Keep Your Kansas City Home Cool Without Breaking the Bank
When it comes to the Kansas City environment, it can be difficult to manage keeping your home cool without spending a lot. According to the Department of Energy, the ordinary homeowner will spend almost half their energy bill on their heating and cooling needs, around $875 a year. However, if you’d like to try and reduce that number, it could be time to consider scheduling air conditioner service and a consultation to discuss an upgrade for your home’s air conditioning system.
In a recent USA Today article, Department of Energy Deputy Assistant Secretary Kathleen Hogan says “Residents should strongly consider replacing a central air more than a dozen years old. Switching it out for one that carries an ENERGY STAR® rating could pare your cooling costs by roughly 30 percent.”
Any savings will depend on the age of the air conditioner, but usually, getting a new air conditioner takes strategic advantage of the technological improvements made that make heating and cooling equipment more efficient.
Of course, newer, energy efficient air conditioners could help reduce your energy bill, but don’t diminish the importance of routine air conditioner service. Hogan and Dan DiClerico, senior editor of Consumer Reports also note that cleaning and changing air filters can significantly improve the performance of your air conditioner.
Also mentioned as critical keys to keeping your home cool without spending a lot:
- Add insulation to your attic
- Make sure your home is well-sealed
- Seal your ductwork to make sure the cool air is going where it’s supposed to
- Set your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit; 26 degrees Celsius
- Close vents in rooms that are unoccupied
- Run a ceiling fan in the room you are in
Whether you’re wanting to set up air conditioner service or want to hear more about your replacement air conditioner possibilities, give the pros at Neal Harris Service Experts a call at 816-787-0500 or set up an appointment with us through our online scheduler.