According to the Department of Energy, three-quarters of United States homes are equipped with working air conditioners. Another far more surprising fact is that these air conditioners use about 6% of all the electricity that is generated each year within the United States. And this amounts to an estimated cost of about $29 billion to homeowners. It's no wonder then that finding ways to keep AC units in good working order, how to stay on top of AC repair and maintenance, and how to reduce energy waste, in general, are hot topics for homeowners these days. Sometimes, the best way to prevent breakdowns with heating and cooling system is to reduce the strain and abuse they are subjected to. And to this end, here are some things homeowners can do to reduce energy waste and also help extend the time between necessary AC repair work.

Improve Plantings Around Your House

The way you landscape your yard can help lower your bills. Planting trees to provide shade and to block sunlight from getting into the windows can go a long way in helping reduce the energy usage for your cooling needs.

Cover Your Windows

Using shade screens, blinds, and curtains to cover the windows during the hotter parts of the day can help keep the interior of your home cooler and let you leave the AC off.

Raise the Thermostat 5 Degrees

Shifting the thermostat to stay on for 5 more degrees than normal can shave hours of run time off the day and really save you money each month on your bills during the summer months.

Use Fans as Much as Possible

Keep windows open and use fans in the house as much as possible. Moving air is cooler than stagnant air. So the simple act of having the ceiling fan going or having an oscillating fan set up can help keep a room several degrees cooler!

Limit Cooking During Hot Spells

Try to stay out of the kitchen as much as you can during the hot periods. If you do cook, try to get it all done in one day and stockpile it for the rest of the week. Using the stove and oven will add heat to the home quickly so avoid it if possible.

Stay Up on Repairs and Maintenance

Work with a company you trust for your air conditions repair services in your local area. A little preventive work can go a long way. So be sure to stay on top of all recommended AC repair and maintenance each month!