Living in LA can get rather expensive, so any way you can save some money will be extremely helpful. One of the biggest monthly fees you face is cooling costs because everyone knows it’s warm in that part of the country most of the year. However, you’re in luck! You can do several things to help reduce those charges and keep a little more money in your pocket. Follow these tips and implement them at home. You’ll be surprised at what a difference it makes!
Invest in Windows
Investing in windows is a smart move if you’re looking to reduce your cooling costs. However, did you know that windows are responsible for 25% to 30% of heat gain and loss in residential leading to excessive energy use? That means a significant amount of energy is wasted due to inefficient windows and higher energy bills.
By upgrading your windows, you can improve your home’s insulation and reduce the heat that gets in during the summer months. As a result, it will lower your cooling rates and make your home more comfortable. Additionally, paying for energy-efficient windows helps reduce your carbon footprint and you can contribute to a more sustainable environment.
Different options include double-paned or triple-paned, low-emissivity coatings, and insulated frames. The features work together to keep your home cooler and keep more money in your pocket too!
Seal Up Holes & Gaps
Another action you can take is to seal up any holes or gaps in your home. Believe it or not, a typical family spends about a third of its annual heating and cooling budget, around $350 or so, on air that leaks into or out of the house through unintended gaps and cracks. That’s a lot of wasted energy and money!
You can prevent that valuable, cool air from escaping by sealing up those holes and gaps. This means that your air conditioner won’t have to work as hard to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, ultimately resulting in lower utilities.
Sealing up holes and gaps is a relatively easy and inexpensive process that anyone can do. You only need some caulk, weatherstripping, and basic tools. And the best part? Once you’ve sealed up those gaps, you’ll start seeing a difference in your cooling bills almost immediately.
Monitor Your Usage
Saving on energy bills is also possible by being more aware of the amount of energy you’re using. For example, did you know that heating and cooling your home accounts for a whopping 48% of your energy usage? That means your HVAC system is one of the most significant contributors to your electricity bill.
You can identify areas where cuts can be made by keeping an eye on your cooling habits. For example, if you notice that you often leave the AC running when you’re not home, adjust the thermostat to turn off or increase the temperature when you’re away. You can also make small changes like using fans instead of air conditioning or closing the curtains to block out the sun.
In addition to reducing your cooling costs, monitoring your usage can also help you become more aware of your energy consumption in general. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions about using your resources efficiently, ultimately saving you money and reducing your carbon footprint.
Living in LA is expensive, but there are ways to reduce your monthly expenses. Cooling costs are one of the biggest contributors to your electricity bill, but you can implement quick and easy strategies to help lower them. Upgrading your windows, sealing up gaps and holes, and monitoring your usage are some of the common ways people have found to be effective in lowering their utility rates. It will help you save cash and make your home comfier. By being mindful of your energy usage and implementing these simple changes, you can take control of your cooling costs and enjoy savings for years to come. So, take action today and see the difference it can make in your monthly bills and your wallet!
