Florida has hot summers, but you can still save on Orange Park utility bills. Do these five things right now to cut energy costs:

1. Maintain Cooling Equipment

Air conditioner tuneups optimize performance. Studies show that cooling systems performing optimally are up to 45 percent more efficient. Well-maintained cooling equipment is also up to 95 percent less likely to break down unexpectedly and need repair.

2. Use Ceiling Fans

Supplement your AC with ceiling fans to feel cooler. According to some estimates, they can lower cooling costs by up to 40 percent. Ceiling fans rotating in a counterclockwise direction create a wind-chill effect, so even though they don’t reduce indoor air temperature, you can still feel up to eight degrees cooler.

3. Change Air Filters Monthly

Dirty filters interfere with efficiency and can seriously damage your HVAC equipment. Clean filters help your cooling system perform efficiently, thereby lowering cooling costs.

4. Keep the Heat Out

Block out the sun with curtains, shutters, shrubs, blinds and other forms of shade to keep your home cooler and reduce AC usage.

5. Use Your Crock-Pot

Cooking generates heat. Instead of using the stove or microwave, put your Crock-Pot to work. You can create delicious stews, soups and other satisfying culinary delights just by dumping a few ingredients into the pot in the morning and cooking it all day on a very low setting. When you return home from work, voila! You’ll have a tasty, home-cooked meal that generated almost no heat.

If utility bills are still too high, you may need AC replacement. Even the best air conditioners lose efficiency with age whereas new Trane air conditioners get more efficient every year. With proper sizing and correct installation by a service technician certified by NATE, you could reduce cooling costs by up to 50 percent. To get a discount on AC maintenance or to schedule a cost-free air conditioning replacement consultation for your Orange Park home, visit Cool R Us, Inc A/C & Heating or call 904-222-6603.