3 Ways You May Be Increasing Your Utility Costs

We all do many things without realizing it. Some, like humming while you work, are harmless. Others, such as leaving a gate open and letting a pet out, can be more dangerous. Many homeowners in Sarasota, Florida, may be increasing their utility costs without realizing it. Target these bad energy use habits to lower utility costs and create a more comfortable home.

Excessive Cooling

Summer days in Sarasota can get toasty. Sometimes you can’t take it anymore, so you turn up the AC as high as you can. That may cool down your home quickly. But as the temperature falls, your utility costs rise. It’s not just that you’re using the system, but you’re forcing it to maintain a temperature too far from the temperature outside.

The greater the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the greater the strain on the system. Find other ways to stay cool rather than cranking up the AC system.

Vampire Energy

You may be good at turning off the lights when you leave a room, but what about unplugging electronics? Even when your electronics and appliances are turned off, as long as they are plugged in, they’re sapping energy. We call this vampire energy. You can slay these vampires by plugging your electronics and small appliances into a power strip. Turn that power strip off when you’re not using those devices.

Lack of Maintenance

Possibly the greatest culprit of high utility costs is a lack of HVAC maintenance. In order to run efficiently, your system needs a check-up at least twice a year, usually in the fall and spring. Without such maintenance, components of your system can fall into disrepair, which reduces energy efficiency and increases your utility costs.

Don’t let your utility costs be a source of stress any longer. Cut costs by scheduling a preventive maintenance appointment with All American Heating & Cooling. Contact us today at (941) 451-5228 for fast and friendly service.

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