Any Arizonan will tell you: in the summer months, Phoenix and Tucson air conditioning is a must. It’s no secret that a summer in the desert is unlike any other; the days grow longer, the clouds grow sparser, and the temperature grows hotter.
And between older technology and faulty units, sometimes it can feel like each spike in temperature is followed by an equally high spike in home cooling costs. But how do you strike a balance between comfort and cost? How can you save money on air conditioning in both the short and the long term?
Below are a couple of helpful hints straight from Chas Roberts Air Conditioning & Plumbing, Phoenix and Tucson air conditioning experts:
Thermostat Setting: The hotter it is outside, the harder your air conditioner has to work. And while your indoor comfort is always worth it, the last thing you want to do is pay for more air conditioning than you need. In order to help you save money in the short term (without sacrificing your cool), try turning your air conditioner up at night or when you’re not home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, by simply turning your air conditioning back 7-10 degrees from its normal setting for 8 hours a day, you can save as much as 10 percent a year on cooling costs. Looking to combine cost efficiency with convenience? Invest in a programmable thermostat that will allow you to store and save multiple daily settings in advance.
Consider a Replacement: Though it may at first seem tempting to consider a Phoenix or Tucson air conditioning repair service versus a replacement, really weigh the pros and cons before you commit. Though our dependable Chas Roberts professionals have years of repair experience, sometimes summertime repairs can cost you more money in the long run, versus replacing an old system. The average lifespan of an air conditioning unit is six to 12 years, and a system in a cooler climate can last two to three times longer than a system in a hot climate, according to HVACopcost.com. Additionally, new improvements in technology mean that a new system will be more efficient than your current, older unit; modern equipment could cut your cooling costs by 30 percent, according to energystar.gov.
Whether you’re looking to make a small daily adjustment or a full unit replacement, these tips can help you save energy and save money. To read more helpful Phoenix and Tucson air conditioning tips and tricks or to schedule an appointment with a trusted Chas Roberts professional, visit us today!