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Saving Costs with the Right Thermostat Settings

jwebmin • Nov 19, 2018

Air conditioning systems are a must for any home, no matter what month or season it is. They are especially a godsend in the hottest days of summer and the coldest nights of winter. Air conditioning systems make your home a lot more comfortable. They ensure that you and your family are not exposed to temperatures that can potentially cause problems. Imagine your house being exposed to an oven-hot summer for days at a time. That’s enough to make anyone sick.

These systems, however, can be a tad costly if you don’t know what you are supposed to be doing. Keeping costs down is always welcome, and there are things and tricks that you can follow in order for you to be able to save up on costs.

7 tricks for you to save on costs

If you need tips on how to cut your air conditioning costs at home, then look no further. Here are 7 tips and tricks you can do in order for you to cut down on expenses.

1. Get an appropriate air conditioning unit.

The first thing to consider when you are getting an air conditioning unit should be the type that you need. If the room has an external wall, then a window-type unit should suffice. Any room with no external walls will need a split-type unit.

You also have to make sure that the capacity of your air conditioning unit matches the size of the room. Stronger units naturally consume more power, and can be costlier in the long run. If your rooms are not that large, consider replacing your units with less powerful ones. You’ll be making sure that the air conditioning unit won’t be on full blast all the time, and it will help you save on costs.

2. Set times for your thermostat.

It goes without saying that you need to turn the thermostat down on colder days, and turn it up on the warmer ones. However, if you can set specific times for when your thermostat needs to be turned up or down, then you can also save money.

For example, consider a more neutral setting for daytime as in many cases, no one is even home during the day. It would be a waste to have the air conditioning system to be on full blast. Also, consider turning the thermostat to a more neutral setting in the middle of the night, when everyone is asleep. If you can’t be bothered to do all these, you may want to consider getting a smart or programmable thermostat.

3. Consider getting a smart or programmable thermostat.

Admittedly, it will be a waste of time and effort to wake up in the middle of the night to turn the thermostat up or down to save energy. It would also be a waste to head home in the middle of the day just to do that.

Getting a programmable thermostat will allow you to program settings into your air conditioning system based on what temperatures you want, and what time you want the system to start adjusting to these temperatures. Using a programmable thermostat will help your home cut down on costs in the long run.

4. Get space heaters.

Space heaters are a cheap alternative to having all your rooms installed and linked to an air conditioning system. These are a useful solution for the coldest winter days. Alternatively, you can also use space heaters to supplement your air conditioning systems. Just set the thermostat to neutral and use a space heater to help in maintaining a good room temperature.

Space heaters are also quite flexible in terms of where they can be placed. Do you want your living room to be warmer? No problem. Just move the space heater off into that room. That’s something you can’t do with an entire heater system.

Some room layouts are not very conducive to saving energy costs. Take a quick look around your rooms and see if there are some things you can adjust in order to make the flow of air better inside. Check for tall pieces of furniture that get in the way of the flow of air from your air conditioning units. Also check for corners, blockages, and the like. Make adjustments to your thermostat accordingly afterwards.

5. Wear appropriate clothing.

If you really want to cut back on costs, then a few lifestyle changes are in order. We’re not talking about anything too big. Simple changes like clothing preferences when at home may be in order. Something as simple as wearing thicker clothes during bedtime, buying thicker blankets for you and your kids, or opting for thinner clothes during summer can help you not to be too harsh on your thermostat and your wallet.

6. Make sure that your units are regularly maintained.

Any of your air conditioning units breaking will cost you money. Any of them malfunctioning may also lead to higher energy costs. Make sure that your air conditioning system is regularly maintained to prevent these occurrences from happening. While it is true that maintenance still costs money, it will be well worth it.

Save on energy and electricity costs by getting the right air conditioner for your home.

Cut down on costs and maybe even make your units last longer. If you’re looking for a company in the Lake Macquarie and Newcastle area to help you out, Lakeside Air is here for you. Give us a call at 4947 4122, or you can get a free quote for our services here.

References:

10 Tips for the Thermostat. https://www.care2.com/greenliving/10-thermostat-tips-save-money.html

Programmable Thermostats. https://www.houselogic.com/save-money-add-value/save-on-utilities/programmable-thermostats/

Thermostats. http://energy.gov/energysaver/articles/thermostats

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Maximising Energy Efficiency: How Electrical Upgrades Can Save You Money

30 Apr, 2024

In today's world, where sustainability is becoming increasingly important and energy costs are on the rise, finding ways to maximise your energy efficiency is not only beneficial for the environment but also for your wallet. As a homeowner, one of the most effective ways to achieve this goal is through electrical upgrades. At Lakeside Air & Electrical , we understand the significance of energy efficiency, and we're here to guide you through the process of how electrical upgrades can save you money in the long run. Why Energy Efficiency Matters Before diving into the specifics of electrical upgrades, let's first understand why energy efficiency is so crucial. Energy efficiency refers to using less energy to achieve the same level of performance, and it offers a myriad of benefits: Cost Savings One of the most significant advantages of adopting more energy efficient practices in your home is the potential for cost savings on your utility bills. By reducing your energy consumption, you can lower your monthly expenses and enjoy the savings over time. Environmental Impact Energy production is a leading contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. By conserving energy through efficiency measures, you can reduce your carbon footprint and play your part in reducing the effects of climate change. Improved Comfort Energy-efficient upgrades often result in better indoor comfort. From more consistent temperatures to improved air quality, these enhancements can create a healthier and more comfortable living environment for you and your family. Electrical Upgrades for Energy Efficiency Now that we've established the importance of energy efficiency, let's explore some key electrical upgrades that can help you achieve your goals: LED Lighting Traditional bulbs are notorious for their inefficiency, wasting a significant amount of energy as heat. By switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs , you can reduce your lighting energy consumption while enjoying longer-lasting illumination. Smart System Technology Heating and cooling account for a substantial portion of household energy usage. Technology like Daikin Airbase Wifi or Airtouch can offer advanced features such as programmable schedules, remote access, and energy usage tracking. Automated timers also allow you to optimize your HVAC system for efficiency and savings. Energy-Efficient Appliances From refrigerators to washing machines, modern appliances are available with energy-efficient options that can significantly reduce your electricity consumption. Look for appliances with ENERGY STAR ratings to ensure optimal efficiency and performance. Installation of Energy-Efficient Air Conditioning Systems Ask the Lakeside Air & Electrical team about installing energy-efficient heating , ventilation , and air conditioning (HVAC) systems! This includes ensuring compliant and correct electrical wiring from the source to the switchboard, electrical connections, and integration with smart system technology. Switchboard Upgrades Often overlooked, majority of Australian homes’ switchboards are outdated or undersized for today’s modern technology and appliances, our Electricians can upgrade your switchboard to accommodate the desired energy efficient and growing demand with technology. A properly sized switchboard ensures safe and reliable operation while supporting your energy-saving initiatives. In conclusion, maximising energy efficiency through electrical upgrades is a smart investment that can yield significant returns in terms of cost savings, environmental effectiveness, and overall comfort. At Lakeside Air & Electrical, we specialise in helping homeowners like you achieve their energy efficiency goals through tailored electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you save money while reducing your carbon footprint!

Introducing the Daikin Zena: Your Ultimate Solution for Comfort and Health

31 Mar, 2024

As we transition into the colder months, ensuring the comfort and well-being of our loved ones becomes a top priority. With the looming cold and flu season, finding the perfect balance between warmth and clean, purified air is essential. Enter Lakeside Air & Electrical, your exclusive Daikin air conditioning dealer , here to introduce you to the pinnacle of comfort technology: the Daikin Zena .

The Importance of Seasonal HVAC Check-Ups

29 Feb, 2024

As the leaves begin to change with the season, it's a clear sign that cooler weather is on the horizon. While you may be excited about the idea of cozy nights in, it's crucial not to overlook the importance of preparing your home for the changing seasons, particularly when it comes to your air conditioning system. At Lakeside Air & Electrical , we understand the significance of seasonal HVAC check-ups in ensuring your home remains comfortable and efficient throughout the cooler months. Here are some reasons why scheduling a seasonal HVAC check-up is essential: Optimal Performance Over time, dust, debris, and wear and tear can impact the efficiency of your HVAC system. Regular maintenance, especially before the onset of colder weather, ensures that your system is operating at peak performance. This not only enhances comfort but also helps lower energy bills by ensuring that your system doesn't have to work harder than necessary to maintain desired temperatures. Prevention of Breakdowns There's nothing worse than experiencing a heating system breakdown on a chilly evening. By scheduling a seasonal HVAC check-up, our experienced technicians can identify and address any potential issues before they escalate into major problems. This proactive approach saves you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs down the line. Improved Indoor Air Quality As we spend more time indoors during the cooler months, indoor air quality becomes increasingly important. A well-maintained HVAC system helps filter out airborne pollutants, allergens, and contaminants, creating a healthier indoor environment for you and your family. Safety Assurance Faulty HVAC systems can pose safety hazards, such as carbon monoxide leaks or electrical malfunctions. During a seasonal check-up, our technicians conduct thorough inspections to ensure that your heating system is operating safely and efficiently, providing you with peace of mind throughout the autumn and winter seasons. Now that you understand the importance of seasonal HVAC check-ups, here's what you can expect during a maintenance visit from Lakeside Air & Electrical: Comprehensive Inspection: Our skilled tradesman will examine the HVAC system, including air filters, ductwork and electrical connections, as well as carrying out testing of refrigerant/gas levels and operational components of indoor and outdoor units. Cleaning: We'll remove any debris parts to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation, as well as replace or clean air filters to improve airflow and efficiency. Testing: Our technicians will test the system's performance, including airflow, temperature output, and temperature calibration, to ensure everything is functioning optimally in the space. Recommendations and Advice: Based on our findings, we'll provide recommendations for any necessary repairs or upgrades and offer advice on how to maximise energy efficiency and comfort in your home. Don't wait until the temperatures plummet to take action—schedule your maintenance visit today and enjoy a cozy, worry-free autumn and winter season ahead. If you’re looking at getting a new system installed before the cooler months, NOW is the time to reach out to our team for your free quote and inspection ! For professional HVAC maintenance and service, contact Lakeside Air and Electrical today. Let us help you keep your home comfortable and efficient all year round!