Energy-saving tips for an Alabama summer

Clean or replace your air filters.
When you replace your air filters or clean them out, you improve your air quality, and you take pressure off your AC, saving energy.

Unplug and give your appliances a rest.
Did you know that your TV, your home office equipment, your kitchen appliances, you name it, are all using power, even when they’re turned off or not being used? This summer, cut down on wasted energy and try getting in the habit of unplugging between uses. 

Help your AC by keeping the air moving.
Did you know that by using a fan alongside your AC, you can raise the temp up to 4 degrees higher without feeling a difference in comfort? Running a fan also uses far less energy than your air conditioning, and if you run it counterclockwise in the summertime, you’ll feel an even cooler breeze.

Ensure your air conditioner has proper airflow to operate efficiently.
Keep vents unblocked and clear from dust and debris which can restrict airflow. Good airflow reduces the strain on your system and helps it cool more effectively.

Avoid using appliances during the hottest part of the day. 
Your AC works hardest during peak hours, typically between 3 PM and 7 PM when temperatures are at their highest. To reduce strain, try to minimize heat-generating activities during these hours, such as cooking or using the dryer.

Get your AC checked out each year.
Prolonged high temperatures during the summer mean your AC runs longer and cycles more frequently, leading to increased wear and tear. Regular maintenance and smart usage can help prolong its lifespan.

Weatherproofing isn't just for winter.
Seal any cracks, gaps, holes or other similar areas where there may be heat coming in from outside. By sealing up air leaks now, you can save your AC a whole lot of extra work. 

Seal leaky air ducts.
Leaky ducts can account for a large chunk of usage. Properly sealing ducts ensures that cool air reaches its intended destination without being wasted. This can greatly improve your system’s efficiency. 

Only use what you need.
Practice turning out unnecessary lights to cut down on energy usage and embrace that summertime natural light. It’s a good tip to teach your kids, too!   

Don’t make your chargers work overtime.
Charging your phone or other devices overnight not only uses far more energy than necessary to get to that 100%, but it can also wear out the battery in your device. Find a couple hours a day to charge, so you can unplug at night.

Skip complicated dinners and fire up the grill.
Using your oven or stove not only takes a lot of energy, but also raises the temp in your home, making your AC work harder to keep you cool. Instead, get outside and fire up the grill with friends and family. 

Choose LED: do less, more efficiently.
Did you know that LED bulbs use at least 75% less energy than your regular ones? Choose LED next time you need to replace a bulb and save.

Plant a tree and save your AC some work.
If you are considering some updates to your yard, remember a strategically placed plant or tree can do a world of good for your AC unit. If your unit is in the direct sun, it’s having to work a lot harder. Show it some shady love this summer.

Small changes can make a big difference.
When it comes to saving energy in the summertime, we’ve got one top tip: don’t underestimate the power of little changes. From turning off unnecessary lights to bumping your thermostat up just a degree or two, it’s the small things that can make a big difference.