As parts of the country bake with three-digit temperatures, Americans are turning on their air conditioners — and racking up their electric bills.
Bills that would normally rise at this time of year are rising as the cost of producing electricity has risen rapidly. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, nearly 90 percent of homes in the United States use some form of air conditioning for cooling. The administration’s latest forecast shows that average residential electricity prices will rise by 4.7 percent this summer compared to last summer.
Here are tips for managing your cooling bill.
Seasonal adjustments can help keep central air conditioning systems running smoothly. Technicians typically check the coolant level and clean the cooling coils. “It makes the air conditioner work better and keeps costs down,” said Adam Cooper, senior director of customer solutions at the Edison Electric Institute, a group that represents investor-owned electrical companies.
If you have delayed maintenance, you may have to wait longer for service during the warmer months. But at least you can replace the system’s air filters yourself to keep the cooled air flowing and the unit running efficiently.
Close blinds or blinds during the day to keep out sunlight. You can also try plastic wrap that clings to windows to block the sun’s rays. You can have it installed by a professional or buy DIY kits (about $10 per window). The Energy Department’s “energy saver” website suggests that film is best for areas with long cooling seasons, as they also block solar heat in winter.
Drafty windows and doors that make your home cold in the winter can also make it hotter in the summer, so seal them with weatherstripping, caulk, or spray foam.
Good insulation is especially important for keeping your home cool and dry in hot climates, said Richard Trethewey, a heating and air conditioning contractor who appears on the television show “This Old House.” To make sure your home is energy efficient, consider an energy audit to identify areas that need more insulation. Such reviews usually cost a few hundred dollars, but some utilities will cover the cost. To find a qualified contractor, search the Building Performance Institute website, which certifies and recommends technicians who perform the audits work.
Low-flow showerheads can save electricity by heating less water, said Arah Schuur, executive director at Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships, or NEEP, a nonprofit that promotes regional collaboration. And “smart” power strips can turn off the power of devices when they’re not in use, she said.
Ceiling fans can help you feel cooler and turn up your thermostat. Turn off the fan when you’re not at home, because “fans cool people, not rooms,” says the Department of Energy. Use clothes dryers and dishwashers during cooler hours and avoid using your oven on hot days, the department suggests.
Consider a programmable thermostat to manage your cooling system, especially if you’re away from home during the day. You can set it to a higher temperature when you’re gone and lower it when you get back. If you opt for a “smart” version that is connected to the internet, you can operate it remotely from your mobile phone. Utilities may offer incentives or discounts to consumers who install the thermostats.
Some utility companies pay customers who register their smart thermostats and participate in energy-saving events during times of high demand. Arizona Public Service pays customers, through credits on their account, if they allow the utility to raise their smart thermostat by up to four degrees during “Cool Rewards” events in the summer. The program is limited to 20 events per summer, each lasting a maximum of three hours.
If your cooling system is aging, consider investing in a replacement as newer models are much more efficient, said Mr Trethewey. There are now more options, he said, such as new heat pump systems that use “inverter” technology to cool your home in the summer (and heat it in the winter). “It’s like cruise control,” he said. Some states and utilities, including New York, offer financial incentives for installing heat pumps.
New cooling systems can cost thousands of dollars, depending on the type of unit, the size of the house, and other variables. Expect to pay $8,000 to $12,000, said Donald Brandt, a fellow at ASHRAE, a group for heating, refrigeration and air conditioning professionals.
Home air-conditioning units can last about 20 years, if properly maintained, Mr Brandt said.
Do you live in an appartment? Look for a window air conditioner that meets federal Energy Star standards. Units are usually available for a few hundred dollars to $1,000, depending on the size needed.
Here are some questions and answers about summer cooling bills:
How do I avoid large peaks in my electricity bill in the summer?
Ask about ‘level’ billing. Not to scare customers with volatile bills, utilities often agree to charge a flat monthly rate, then settle any difference in payments due once a year. Normally, your account must be in good standing to be eligible.
If you’re struggling to pay your bill, the federal government funds the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Check with the appropriate agency in your country to see if you qualify.
Can I really save money by turning my thermostat up in the summer?
Raising your thermostat by just one degree in the summer will cut your electric bill by 2 percent, according to the Edison Institute. The Energy department suggests setting the thermostat as high as possible when you’re at home — aim for 78 degrees — and a few degrees higher when you’re away.
