Saving Green by Going Green: Easy ways to reduce your air conditioning bills and carbon footprint

Americans spend $11 billion keeping their homes cool every year, and the average American air conditioning unit releases almost 2 tons of carbon dioxide every year. While home air conditioning units set the standard for keeping your house cool in the summer, there are some simple tips to lower both your carbon footprint and your energy bill:

• Keep your air filters clean. During the summer months, when A/C usage is at its highest, replace them every month. When you pay your utility bill, change the filter.
• As mentioned in previous posts, give your unit a professional tune up. Having a technician come out and take a look can help identify small problems before they become big expensive ones. Your technician should the note the conditions of the coil, the filter, condensation tray line, the refrigerant pressure, the blower motor, the outdoor condenser, the fan motor and the electrical connections.
• Set your thermostat a few degrees higher. You won’t notice the difference, but your bank account will.
• Install a programmable thermostat and set it to automatically kick on a half hour before you return. This will ensure your house is cool when you’re home, and a little warmer while you are away.
• Shade your air conditioning unit. When installing a home cooling system, place them in indirect sunlight. Place window units on the north facing windows, if possible.
• Inventory your home for easy to do improvements. Seal leaky ducts and “bulk up” your insulation if you live in older home. Both these solutions will keep the cool air from escaping.
• If your unit is more than 10 years old, consider replacing it for a more energy efficient unit. Technology has come a long way, and you’ll recoup the initial investment over time through lower energy bills.
• If you are installing a new unit, be sure it is sized properly for your home. One recent study suggests most air conditioning units are 50% oversized for the cooling needs of the home.
• Wash and dry dishes and laundry early in the morning or later in the evening. This will eliminate added heat from the washer, dryer, or washing machine.
• Use ceiling fans to increase airflow and comfort levels.
• Install window shades or blinds to decrease sun exposure.
• Keep them drawn throughout the day.

These inexpensive easy to implement strategies can help your household go a little “greener” while adding some “green” to your bank account.