Texas heat can be extremely hot in the summer months but there are a few ways to help keep cool.
- Keep your HVAC system well maintained.
- Make sure the area around your outside unit is free of debris. Keep grass and branches cut around the unit. This allows the unit to run efficiently.
- Keep your thermostat temperature constant. Changing the temperature every time you leave actually causes the unit to work harder, thus causing your bill to be higher. An average temperature of 75-78 is best between the heat of the day which is from 11am-6pm. Any temperature below 75 can risk unit running all day and not resting in the heat of the day and could also freeze a unit up. It cannot reach those lower temperature when the heat index exceeds in the 3 digits outside.
- Change your air filter regularly. Read the recommended time on your filter package.
- Blocking sunlight from coming in your windows by using blinds and/or curtains. Windows that face west or south will bring in the most heat. Consider heat blocking curtains for these windows.
- Turn on fans. They help circulate air in the room. Fans are cheaper to run than the air conditioner, and they help you feel cooler..
- Don’t use the oven to cook on those extremely hot days. Fire up your grill and cook your meat and veggies outside.
- If possible, air dry your dishes instead of running the dishwasher every day. Your utility bill (and house temperature) will thank you.
- Do laundry early in the morning or in the evening and when using your dryer, put it on right before bed so that the heat will be gone by morning.
- Also selecting a newer and better insulated unit to lease can be more energy efficient and maintain cooler temperatures than an older unit.
