Summer in Frankfort, KY, can bring some seriously hot days. From the muggy afternoons to the occasional heat waves, residents here know how important it is to stay cool. But with the rising temperatures, homeowners often find themselves cranking up their air conditioning, which can lead to higher energy bills. Thankfully, there are practical ways to reduce the strain on your HVAC system without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re looking to cut costs, improve efficiency, or extend the lifespan of your system, this blog will provide some helpful, energy-saving tips for your HVAC system during the hottest summer months.

Understanding the Climate in Frankfort, KY

Frankfort, located in central Kentucky, experiences a humid subtropical climate, which means the summer months can get quite warm and sticky. While average high temperatures reach into the 80s and 90s, the humidity makes it feel even hotter. This combination often leads to increased use of air conditioning as homeowners strive to stay comfortable indoors.

However, with rising energy prices, it’s important to find a balance between keeping your home cool and avoiding sky-high utility bills. That’s where energy-saving tips for your HVAC system come in. These tips will not only keep your home cool but also help you reduce the load on your air conditioning system, saving you money and energy in the process.

1. Regular Maintenance is Key to Efficiency

When it comes to energy efficiency, nothing beats regular maintenance for your HVAC system. Just like any other appliance, your air conditioner needs attention to function properly. By investing in annual HVAC maintenance, you can ensure that your system runs at peak efficiency, preventing breakdowns and costly repairs.

What Maintenance Should Be Done?

• Changing the Air Filter: One of the simplest and most important steps in HVAC maintenance is replacing or cleaning the air filter. A dirty filter can restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder, which in turn uses more energy. It’s recommended to change your air filter every 1-3 months, especially during high-use months like summer.
• Cleaning the Coils: Both the evaporator and condenser coils in your HVAC system collect dirt over time. Dirty coils reduce the system’s ability to absorb and release heat, making it work harder and consume more energy. Schedule regular cleaning by a professional technician to keep everything running smoothly.
• Checking Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant levels can reduce your air conditioner’s cooling power. An HVAC technician can check and refill refrigerant as needed, ensuring optimal cooling without wasting energy.
• Inspecting Ductwork: Leaky ducts can lead to cool air escaping, wasting both energy and money. A professional can inspect and seal any leaks to improve efficiency.

2. Optimize Your Thermostat Settings

One of the easiest ways to save energy without sacrificing comfort is by adjusting your thermostat settings. Small changes in how you use your thermostat can make a big difference in your energy consumption.

Set It and Forget It

• Increase Temperature When Not Home: When you’re not at home, increase the thermostat temperature by 5-10 degrees. For example, if you usually set it at 72°F, consider setting it to 78°F while you’re away. This way, your HVAC system won’t be cooling an empty house, saving you energy.
• Utilize Programmable Thermostats: A programmable thermostat allows you to set specific temperatures for different times of the day. You can have it cool your home just before you arrive and adjust the temperature when you’re sleeping. This prevents unnecessary cooling during times when it’s not needed.
• Smart Thermostats: If you want to take it a step further, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats can learn your preferences and adjust accordingly, optimizing your cooling schedule based on your habits. They can also be controlled remotely, allowing you to change the temperature from your phone even when you’re not at home.

The Ideal Temperature Range

• The Department of Energy suggests setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re at home during the summer. This provides a comfortable temperature without overburdening your system. For every degree you increase your thermostat, you can save up to 3% on your cooling costs.

3. Maximize Natural Cooling

Before turning on the air conditioner, take advantage of natural cooling methods to reduce your reliance on your HVAC system.

• Close Curtains and Blinds: Sunlight streaming through windows can significantly raise the temperature in your home. By closing blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day, you can prevent heat from entering your home, keeping the inside cooler.
• Use Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans help circulate air and create a breeze, making it feel cooler even if the temperature is slightly higher. A fan doesn’t cool the air, but it helps sweat evaporate, which cools your skin. Make sure to turn off fans when you leave a room, as they only work when you’re present.
• Seal Gaps and Insulate: Air leaks and poor insulation can let cool air escape and hot air enter, making your HVAC system work harder. Check for drafts around windows, doors, and ducts. Consider adding weatherstripping and insulation to improve your home’s overall efficiency.
• Use the Oven Less: Cooking with the oven on a hot day can increase the temperature inside your home. Opt for grilling, using a microwave, or preparing no-cook meals instead. If you must use the oven, try to do it during the cooler evening hours.

4. Upgrade Your HVAC System

If your air conditioning system is outdated, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Older systems often operate less efficiently and use more energy than newer models. Modern HVAC systems are designed to provide the same level of comfort but use less energy to do so.

Benefits of Upgrading:

• Higher Efficiency: Newer models are built to be more energy-efficient, meaning they’ll cool your home effectively while consuming less power.
• Better Air Quality: New systems often come with improved air filtration, helping to keep the air inside your home cleaner.
• Increased Comfort: Advanced systems often feature variable-speed motors, which provide more consistent cooling and better humidity control.

If you’re unsure whether your system is running as efficiently as possible, contact a professional to evaluate it and determine if an upgrade makes sense for you.

5. Seal Your Home’s Envelope

To ensure that the cool air stays inside and the hot air stays outside, focus on sealing your home’s envelope. The envelope includes your walls, roof, windows, doors, and foundation. Air leaks in these areas can force your HVAC system to work harder than necessary.

Key Areas to Seal:

• Windows and Doors: Use caulk or weatherstripping around windows and doors to seal any gaps. Consider installing energy-efficient windows if your current ones are old and drafty.
• Attic and Basement: Hot air often enters through poorly insulated attics and basements. Insulating these areas can significantly reduce your cooling load.
• Ductwork: Leaky ducts can account for up to 30% of a system’s energy loss. Sealing and insulating your ducts can prevent cool air from escaping, improving both energy efficiency and air quality.

6. Consider Zoning Your Home’s Cooling

If you have a large home, zoning your HVAC system could help you save on energy costs. Zoning allows you to cool specific areas of your home based on your usage. For example, you can keep the living room cooler during the day while leaving bedrooms at a higher temperature.

Zoning systems can be installed by adding motorized dampers to your ductwork. These dampers direct airflow to specific parts of your home, reducing the need to cool unused rooms.

For HVAC Services in Frankfort, KY, Contact Ware’s Heating & Cooling Today

By following these energy-saving tips, you can keep your home cool during the hottest summer months in Frankfort, KY, while also saving on energy costs. From regular maintenance and smart thermostat settings to natural cooling methods and upgrading your HVAC system, every step you take to optimize your system will help you stay comfortable without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking to improve the efficiency of your HVAC system, contact Ware’s Heating & Cooling today. Our expert technicians are here to provide professional services, from routine maintenance to system upgrades, ensuring that your home stays comfortable all year round. We’re committed to helping you save energy and money with tailored solutions that fit your needs. Call us now to schedule your consultation!