Keeping your home cool this summer

11:16 AM, May 29, 2012   |    comments
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LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) -- There are several things you can do to save money, and perspiration, this summer.

It is a challenge for many citizens and for some people, no matter how long their air conditioner is running, their home just can't get cool enough.

Major John Warren is a service technician for Airmasters Heating and Air Conditioning.

"It could be the size of the unit is not properly sized to the home. On your condenser on the outside, you could have low freon, you could have a capacitor go bad or you could have power out on your condenser," Warren said.

It is recommended that air conditioner units and furnaces get an annual tune-up. But there are some inexpensive options available; fairly simple tips, but could save money in long run.

"Closing the blinds, keeping the lights off as much as possible. If it's just that the insulation in the attic is not proper for cooling, you may need to add insulation. A digital thermostat will be more accurate so if you set it at 75 [degrees] it will hit 75," Warren said. 

It might also make a difference on the type of filter you choose for your unit. If it's a dense filter you could see your bills run higher.

Warren also added it's important to make sure your doors and windows are properly insulated, including weatherstripping around any opening spaces if needed.

And depending on what type of problem your AC unit develops, Airmasters estimates the repair bill could run between $500 to $800.