6 Tips to Lower Your 2024 Cooling Bills

As summer approaches in Utah, most homeowners turn to their cooling systems for relief. 

The comfort of a cooled Salt Lake City home often comes with a hefty price tag because a constantly running heat pump or air conditioner inevitably uses a lot of energy. Fortunately, Just Right Heating & Cooling has compiled a list of strategic ways to keep your home comfortable without breaking the bank.

1. Optimize Your Thermostat Settings
   One of the simplest ways to save on cooling costs is by adjusting your thermostat settings strategically. Consider raising the temperature by a few degrees when you are away from home or when the outdoor temperature drops.
   
   At Just Right Heating & Cooling, we are big supporters of smart thermostats. They are user-friendly, energy-efficient, and more convenient than standard manual thermostats. Our qualified technicians can determine which thermostats are best for your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.
   
   We proudly offer Daikin and Goodman HVAC products, including Daikin’s One+™ Smart Thermostat that connects to Wi-Fi, the cloud, and a mobile app, and Goodman’s CTK04 thermostat with diagnostics, Internet connectivity, color touchscreen, precise temperature control, and more.  Ask us about installing a smart thermostat and start saving!
2. Harness Natural Ventilation
   Take advantage of cooler outdoor temperatures in the early morning and evening by opening windows and allowing fresh air to circulate through your home. Natural ventilation helps to cool your living space and reduces reliance on your AC system, resulting in lower energy consumption and cost savings.
   
   Be sure to close windows and blinds, especially on south-facing windows, when heat from the sun intensifies. Keep the cool air trapped inside your Salt Lake City home.
3. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Cooling
   If your air conditioning system or heat pump is outdated or inefficient, it may use more energy than necessary to help you feel refreshed in Greater Salt Lake City. Consider upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient model that delivers optimal cooling performance.
   
   While the upfront cost may seem daunting, the long-term savings on energy costs can make it a worthwhile investment.
   
   Federal tax credits can help you recoup some of the purchase price and installation costs. Through 2032, you can claim up to $600 on qualified air conditioners and up to $2,000 on air-source heat pumps. Read more about tax credits for energy-efficient upgrades at ENERGY STAR^®.
4. Seal and Insulate
   Improperly sealed windows, doors, and ductwork can allow cool air to escape from your home, forcing your AC or heat pump to work harder to keep your indoor environment comfortable.
   
   Seal gaps and cracks with weather stripping and caulking, and adequately insulate the walls and attic. This will prevent air leaks and improve your cooling system, lowering energy bills. 
5. Maintain Your AC System
   Preventative maintenance keeps your air conditioner or heat pump in top condition. Schedule an annual tune-up with one of our qualified HVAC technicians at Just Right Heating & Cooling for cooling system maintenance.
   
   We will clean coils, check refrigerant levels, lubricate moving parts, and ensure your system operates efficiently. Our professionals also find and resolve minor issues before they cause breakdowns that need expensive repairs.
   
   Our VIP Program offers filter change reminders, maintenance tips, 25-point inspections, discounts on repairs, a two-year warranty, and more. You will feel like a VIP when your HVAC unit needs service and we extend front-of-the-line priority service to you.
6. Use Your Ceiling Fans
   Ceiling fans and portable fans can help to circulate air and create a cooling breeze, allowing you to raise the thermostat setting without sacrificing comfort. Use fans strategically to supplement your AC system and distribute cool air more effectively throughout your Salt Lake City home. Remember to turn off fans when you leave a room to avoid wasting energy.

Contact Our Team

By implementing these strategies, you can keep your Salt Lake City, UT, home comfortable and your cooling bills in check this spring. With some planning and attention to detail, you can enjoy a cool, energy-efficient home without wasting money. If you think it may be time for HVAC maintenance or an upgrade, contact Just Right Heating & Cooling at (801) 939-3433 or request service online.