Many people are too busy enjoying the cooler temperatures to think about energy savings. But finding ways to get the most use out of your electricity is just as important in the autumn as it is any other time of the year. Take these steps to keep your electric bills low during the fall.
Air Conditioner Servicing
Any electrician in Miami can confirm that your air conditioner is one of the biggest consumers of energy, so it’s important to make sure that you’re getting the most cooling power possible to avoid wasting money. One thing that you can do to keep it functioning properly is have the filter changed. After a long, hot summer of constant use, it is probably full of dust and debris. This slows down the movement of air and diminishes the cooling power of the system. You must then run it at a higher setting to cool your home. Keep your air conditioner running smoothly by changing the filter. It is also a good idea to prune any plants that have grown too close to the intake vent; a mass of leaves can contribute to energy waste just like a clogged filter.
Upgrade Light Bulbs
The shorter daylight hours of fall and winter mean that you’ll end up turning on the lights earlier. Upgrade to compact fluorescent or light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs for maximum efficiency. These bulbs may cost a bit more than traditional incandescents, but they will last several times longer and provide the same amount of light with less energy.
Seal Out the Air
The change from extreme heat to more moderate temperatures causes weatherstrips to contract, and they may develop cracks or gaps. Leaky weatherstrips are a major cause of air flowing in and out of the home. The temperatures in the fall may be comfortable, but you’ll find yourself running the air conditioner more and more next summer if the weatherstrips are not properly sealing the air out. You should also invest in some covers for electrical outlets on exterior walls; those tiny holes can let in a considerable amount of air over time.
A Miami electrician can provide further advice for saving money on your electric bill. Saving energy doesn’t require major lifestyle changes. It’s simply a matter of eliminating waste and ensuring that your appliances are running at full efficiency.