How to Reduce Your AC Costs during Fort Collins’ Hot Summers

From June to August, the average high in Fort Collins tends to be around 81°F to 87°F. To beat the heat, you need a well-maintained air conditioner (AC). If your AC hasn’t been properly maintained and repaired, it will end up using more energy than necessary to cool your home. 

Fortunately, there are a few easy things you can do to reduce your energy bill this summer. AC repair in Fort Collins can help you quickly diagnose and repair common issues. If you want to learn more about air conditioning repair near me, read on. 

Ways to Lower Your AC Costs in the Summer 

If you want to decrease your energy costs, air conditioner maintenance in Fort Collins can help. From upgrading your system to changing your thermostat, there are a few simple changes you can make to lower the amount you have to spend on energy each year. 

Upgrade Your System

Over time, air conditioners become less efficient. A typical air conditioner can last up to 15 to 20 years if it is properly maintained. However, even the best AC maintenance won’t stop the air conditioner from becoming less efficient over time.

Our comprehensive AC guide goes through our installation process and replacement tips. In general, you’ll need to calculate your home’s cooling needs so that you can get an AC with the right capacity. You’ll also want to consider the brands and features you want.

Invest in an Annual Maintenance Plan 

One of the best things you can do to boost your energy efficiency is to schedule Fort Collins AC maintenance. Balance Point’s professional AC maintenance involves a 30+ point inspection that looks for common issues. In addition to lubricating the AC parts, we’ll also diagnose repair problems. 

In general, we recommend getting an AC tune-up at least once a year. We like to schedule these maintenance appointments in the spring so that we can diagnose and repair any issues before you start using your AC.

Get Professional Repairs 

When disaster strikes, professional AC repair in Fort Collins is here to help. As soon as you notice a repair issue, it’s important to get it fixed right away. Repairs can hamper your energy efficiency by making your AC work harder. In addition, small problems can quickly snowball into major issues if they aren’t dealt with promptly.

Replace Your AC Filters 

If you want to reduce your energy costs, you should clean or replace your air filter every 30 to 90 days. The length of time between replacements depends on the manufacturer’s specifications. A dirty air filter can reduce your system’s efficiency by up to 15%, so replacing it is a fast way to alleviate your energy costs. 

Clean Around Your Outdoor Unit 

There are many Fort Collins AC maintenance tasks you can handle on your own that can lower how much you pay for energy each month. Cleaning around your outdoor unit helps it operate more efficiently and prevents clogs. In general, you should remove any debris, weeds, or other items that are within 2 to 3 feet of the outdoor unit.

Change the Temperature on Your Thermostat 

By setting your thermostat at the ideal temperature for your home, you can lower the amount you spend on energy costs. In Colorado’s climate, most homes will generally feel comfortable at around 78°F during the daytime.

However, this temperature recommendation can vary based on the humidity level, your home’s layout, and your personal preferences. Higher humidity levels feel warmer, so you may need a cooler temperature when the humidity level goes up. Likewise, many people sleep best at a temperature that is between 60°F and 67°F.

Install a Ceiling Fan

To save money on your power bill, consider installing ceiling fans in each room of your home. A ceiling fan creates a breeze, so you feel cooler. In addition, they provide better air circulation, which helps your AC achieve a more consistent temperature in each room. 

While ceiling fans use electricity, they don’t use nearly as much as an air conditioner. Often, you can feel just as cold at a higher temperature if your ceiling fan is on. 

Improve Your Insulation

Your home’s insulation is a key factor in determining how much you end up spending on energy costs. During the summer, insulation can prevent heat from entering your home. Then, it performs the opposite effect in the winter by keeping your heat inside. 

Home insulation is classified according to its R-value. A higher R-value means the insulation will do a better job of insulating your home. In Fort Collins, you’ll generally want insulation that has the following R-values. 

• Attics: R-49
• Crawlspaces: R-19
• Exterior Walls: R-18
• Floors: R-25 
• Basements: R-11

While insulation can last for decades before it needs to be replaced, older homes may have less efficient types of insulation. By updating your insulation, you can improve the energy efficiency in your home.

Close Your Blinds and Curtains 

Solar energy plays a major role in heating your home. During the heat of the day, you should close your blinds and curtains to block out the sun. If you want some natural light, you can leave one window uncovered on the side of the house that isn’t facing the sun. 

Besides closing your blinds and curtains, there are a few other ways you can prevent heat loss through your windows. First, make sure your home has new, double-insulated windows. These windows are better at keeping heat out, so they can save you money on your power bill. In addition, you may want to investigate heat-control window film to block heat from entering your home.

Save Money on Your Energy Bill This Summer 

By getting maintenance and AC repair in Fort Collins, you can lower the amount you have to spend on your energy bill. At Balance Point, our AC maintenance plans help your AC function as efficiently as possible. During our routine inspections, we make sure your AC isn’t suffering from faulty parts or wear and tear. 

To learn more about how our maintenance plans can help lower your energy bills, call or fill out our online contact form today.