After a long winter of higher heating bills, we’re now seeing overall energy costs heading in the same direction. To minimize the impact of these price increases, MTB Mechanical offers a few simple steps you can take to keep your home comfortable this spring, and avoid immediately switching from heat to air conditioning as temperatures begin to rise.
- Let the fresh air in. Spring days can be warm, but nights are consistently cool. Before turning in, switch off your A/C and open your windows. This keeps your home cool and ventilated while you sleep. Keep your inner doors open as well to promote air circulation. In the morning, close your windows and blinds to keep the cool air in. It’s a routine that can make a real difference on your energy bill.
- Put your fans to work. Whether you have ceiling fans or smaller fans, use them to your advantage as you create a cooler air flow throughout your home. Ceiling fans, with their downward breeze, are so effective at creating cooler air, you can save energy by dialing down your thermostat as much as four degrees without sacrificing comfort.
- Monitor your thermostat temperature. Naturally, there are days when air conditioning is needed, but you don’t always need to keep the setting at the same level. Stay in sync with the fluctuating temperatures of a typical spring in the Charlotte region – warm, cool, warm, cool. Set your thermostat temperature as close as possible to the outdoor temperature to stay comfortable and keep energy costs low, and avoid going from one temperature extreme to the other as the weather changes.
- Keep the hot air out. Depending on when your home was built and the materials used, cracks and openings can form over time. Leaky windows and doors are prime entryways for hot air to enter your home. Look around for these gaps and leaks, and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping.
- Wait until evening to do your chores. Appliances like your washer/dryer, dishwasher and oven all create heat that can raise your indoor temperature. As the weather warms up, avoid using these appliances during the day to help keep your air cool.
- Get your HVAC system checked. Now is the time to have an MTB professional inspect your outdoor air conditioning unit. With our Priority Comfort Agreement, you receive two maintenance checks each year – one for heating and one for cooling. With your A/C visit, you can ensure your system is running properly and ready for the summer months. This can extend the life of your unit and protect against unexpected, costly breakdowns.
To make an appointment with the pros at MTB Mechanical, schedule online or call us at (704) 459-4066 .
