7 Appliances that Raise Your Cooling Costs

What’s easier:  keeping a gallon of ice cream cold by putting it in the freezer, or keeping a gallon of ice cream cold by putting it in the freezer and then blowing a hair dryer on it?

That’s a no-brainer, right?

Blowing hot air on your gallon of ice cream while trying to keep it cold is a losing battle.

The same goes for our homes on hot days.  The air conditioning system is working to cool the inside of the house down, but when extra heat is added, that makes the job much more difficult.  It causes your air conditioner to work harder and can result in maintenance issues.  That extra heat can come from doors and windows left open while the a/c is running and from appliances around your home.  Once your doors and windows are shut tight, it’s time to talk about appliances.

What Appliances Generate Heat?

1. Oven and Stove

If you have ever prepared a large meal, you are aware of how much the oven and stove can warm things up.  In the summer months, we recommend using these devices as a little as possible in order to reduce your air conditioning costs.  Instead, try grilling outside, munch on cold salads, or batch cook every few days and simply use the microwave to re-heat.

The oven and stove are not the only heat generators in your home, however.  Here are some other culprits:

2. Lighting (especially incandescent and halogen lights)

3. Televisions

4. Dishwashers

5. Clothes Dryers

6. Water Heaters

7. Refrigerators

All of these heat generating appliances are working against your air conditioner.  When it is hot outside, these appliances are making you feel warmer AND forcing your a/c to work harder.

What Can We Do about these Appliances?

That said, for many of us, it is not possible or practical to forego using these appliances on hot days.  However, in order to help out your a/c, you can be strategic about your appliance use.  For example:

-When it is hot and sunny outside try line drying your clothes instead of putting the load in the dryer.

-Be vigilant about turning unnecessary lights off in your home.

-Run the dishwasher or other appliances at night or early in the morning when it is naturally cooler outside. (Plus, many utility companies have cheaper rates during this time)

Looking for more tips to stay cool this summer?  Contact us at FLAME Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electrical!