When temperatures climb into the 90s, or even triple digits in Vancouver WA, your air conditioner works overtime to keep your home comfortable. That means higher energy bills that can take a big bite out of your budget. Thankfully, there are real solutions that can help you stay comfortable without breaking the bank.
At All Seasons Heating & Cooling, Inc., we’ve been helping homeowners in Vancouver WA stay cool for more than 30 years. We know how frustrating it can be to watch your electric bill soar during extreme heat.
Dust buildup, worn parts, and refrigerant issues can all make your system less efficient. That means it uses even more energy to do the same job. Many homeowners in Vancouver WA also have homes that weren’t built with extreme heat in mind. These factors combine to create the perfect storm of high cooling costs.
The following tips come from decades of experience working on HVAC systems in our community.
Starting With Your HVAC System
- Replace your air filter regularly.
A dirty filter restricts airflow and makes your system work harder. During heavy use periods like summer heat waves, you may need to change your filter more often than usual. Check it monthly and replace it when it looks dirty.
- Consider an upgrade if your system is older or not in the best condition.
If your air conditioning system is more than 10-15 years old, it may be time to think about an upgrade. Newer systems are much more energy efficient than older models. While a new system is a significant investment, it can pay for itself over time through lower energy bills.
- Schedule a professional tune-up before summer arrives.
We highly suggest that your HVAC system be professionally serviced at least twice a year to keep your system running smoothly. A spring (or early summer) maintenance visit gives our technicians a chance to catch small problems before they become big ones.
Preparing Your Home
- Seal air leaks around windows and doors.
Gaps and cracks let cool air escape and hot air enter your home. Walk around your house and feel for drafts near windows, doors, and electrical outlets. Weatherstripping and caulk are inexpensive fixes that can make a real difference.
- Add insulation where needed.
Attic insulation is especially important because heat rises. A poorly insulated attic acts like an oven sitting on top of your house, radiating heat down into your living spaces.
- Use window coverings strategically.
Direct sunlight coming through windows can heat up your home quickly. Close blinds and curtains on south and west-facing windows during the hottest parts of the day. Blackout curtains or reflective window films can be even more effective at blocking heat.
Thermostat Hacks
- Use a programmable or smart thermostat.
These devices let you automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule. You can set the temperature higher when you’re away at work and have it cool down before you get home. A smart thermostat can learn your habits and optimize your cooling schedule automatically.
- Don’t set your thermostat super low during a heat wave.
When it’s extremely hot outside, setting your thermostat to 68 degrees won’t make your home cool down faster. Your system can only remove heat at a certain rate. All you’ll do is make your system run constantly, which wastes energy and can cause wear and tear on your equipment.
- Take advantage of cooler nighttime temperatures.
Vancouver WA often cools down at night, even during heat waves. Open windows in the evening to let cool air in, then close them in the morning before it heats up. This gives your AC a head start and reduces how hard it has to work during the day.
Reducing Heat Indoors
- Cook outside more or use small appliances.
Your oven generates a lot of heat when you use it. During heat waves, try grilling outside, using a microwave, or preparing cold meals like salads. If you must use your oven, do it in the evening when temperatures are cooler.
- Run major appliances at night.
Your dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer all generate heat. Running these appliances during the cooler evening hours means your AC doesn’t have to work as hard to remove that extra heat from your home.
- Switch to LED light bulbs.
Traditional incandescent bulbs give off most of their energy as heat rather than light. LED bulbs run much cooler and use less electricity.
Cooling in the Long-Term
- Improve your home’s indoor air quality.
Clean air circulates better and helps your HVAC system work more efficiently. Air cleaners and air purifiers remove dust, allergens, and other particles that can build up in your system and reduce its efficiency.
- Upgrade to a more efficient system.
If your current air conditioning system is old or undersized for your home, a new installation can make a dramatic difference. Modern systems are much more efficient than those made even 10 years ago.
When to Call a Professional
- If your system isn’t cooling properly, don’t wait to get it checked. Problems only get worse over time and use more energy the longer they go unfixed.
- Strange noises or smells from your HVAC system are warning signs that something is wrong. Grinding, squealing, or banging sounds often indicate mechanical problems. Musty or burning smells can mean mold growth or electrical issues.
- If your energy bills seem unusually high compared to the same time last year, your system may be losing efficiency. A professional inspection can identify the cause and recommend solutions. Sometimes a simple repair is all that’s needed to restore your system’s efficiency.
All Seasons Heating & Cooling, Inc. Is Here to Help You This Summer
Don’t leave a part broken, or let dust and debris build up in your system. These can turn from simple repairs to costly replacements, costing you in the long run.
At All Seasons Heating & Cooling, Inc., we’ve been helping people in Vancouver WA stay comfortable for more than 30 years. We offer quality customer service and up to a ten-year warranty on most Carrier® equipment. All parts and labor for repairs and services of existing equipment are covered under a one-year warranty.
Call us at 360-944-7611 or fill out an appointment request form here, and we’ll be in touch. We make it easy to stay comfortable all summer long!
