Obviously, if you have solar, the amount you pay for your electricity will be less. But even with solar, you only want to use the amount of energy that your system offset is based on. Otherwise, you will have to pay the remaining balance to the utility.

Here are five easy tips to help you beat the heat and keep you from paying more than you should.

1. Clean/Replace AC Filter: At least once every three months, filters should be cleaned or replaced. A dirty filter can prevent good airflow and lead to your unit’s evaporator coil freezing up, which could add 5–15% to your AC bill. Filters are generally less than $10.
2. Inch That Thermostat Up a Tad: For every degree you raise the temperature, you’ll trim your AC bill by up to 3%. The good news? Research shows the body can adapt to a new normal in just a week or two.
3. Get or Use a Fan: Any kind of fan will help, but a ceiling fan is the most helpful because it circulates the cool air in your house, removing some of the burdens from your AC. Maximize airflow by double-checking that your fan turns counterclockwise.
4. No Need to Cool an Empty Room: You’re chilling a lot of real estate if you have AC vents or units in rooms you’re not using. Shut closet doors everywhere, close vents in unoccupied rooms, and if you’re away, keep window units off.
5. Be Strategic with the Placement of Furniture or Curtains: Be careful not to block AC vents with furniture or curtains, and be sure to close blinds and slide curtains to block as much of the sun as possible during the day to protect your space from the heat.

And if you don’t have solar and you’re still paying too much or aren’t comfortable with the temperature you feel you can afford, it’s time to explore solar! Call Renova Energy today for a free quote on residential or commercial solar installations.