**Austin's AC: Cheap Air Drying Laser Savings?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe Texas sun beats down with relentless fury, especially in Austin. Air conditioning becomes less of a luxury and more of a necessity. But what if you could lessen the burden on your wallet and the environment without sacrificing comfort? Let’s explore some DIY cooling methods and see if they can truly stand up to the Austin heat, with a special focus on the often-hyped laser window films.
The allure of saving money is strong, and the internet is rife with suggestions for cooling your home without maxing out your AC. Fans, evaporative coolers (swamp coolers), and dehumidifiers are often touted as budget-friendly alternatives. But do they actually work in a place like Austin, where humidity can be as oppressive as the heat?
Let’s start with fans. A simple box fan strategically placed can indeed create a noticeable breeze. The key is placement. Don’t just stick it in a corner. Position it to draw cooler air from shaded areas or open windows on the north side of your house and exhaust hot air out of windows on the south side. This creates cross-ventilation, which is crucial. A common mistake is simply circulating hot air within the room. This provides a perceived cooling effect due to increased evaporation from your skin, but doesn’t actually lower the room temperature.
Evaporative coolers, or swamp coolers, work by evaporating water, which absorbs heat from the air. This method is most effective in dry climates. In Austin, with its fluctuating humidity, their effectiveness is limited. On drier days, they can provide a decent cooling effect, but on humid days, they can actually make your home feel muggier. A major pitfall is relying on them during peak humidity periods. You’ll end up feeling worse than before.
Dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air, which can make you feel cooler even if the temperature remains the same. This is because dry air allows your sweat to evaporate more easily, providing a natural cooling effect. However, dehumidifiers consume energy and generate heat as a byproduct. The key is to use them judiciously, focusing on areas prone to high humidity, like bathrooms and basements. Running a dehumidifier in your entire house might negate any energy savings.
Now, let’s delve into the intriguing world of laser-based window films. These films claim to reflect a significant portion of solar radiation, reducing heat gain and lowering your AC bill. The science behind them is sound: they utilize advanced materials to selectively reflect infrared radiation, which is a major component of solar heat. But do they live up to the hype in the real world, especially in Austin’s intense climate?
The effectiveness of laser window films depends on several factors, including the quality of the film, the direction your windows face, and the type of glass you have. Cheaper films may not offer significant heat reduction, while higher-quality films can be quite effective. Windows facing south and west receive the most direct sunlight and benefit the most from these films. Single-pane windows will see a more dramatic improvement compared to double-pane windows, which already offer some insulation.
A common mistake is assuming that all window films are created equal. They aren’t. Look for films with a high Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) rating. A lower SHGC means the film blocks more solar heat. Also, consider the Visible Light Transmittance (VLT) rating. A lower VLT means the film blocks more light, which can darken your room. Finding the right balance between heat reduction and light transmission is crucial.
Let’s consider a hypothetical scenario: You live in a 1,200 square foot bungalow in the Zilker neighborhood of Austin. Your home has single-pane windows facing south and west. You’re tired of your sky-high electricity bills during the summer. You decide to try laser window film on those windows.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to maximizing your savings:
- Measure your windows: Accurately measure the dimensions of your windows to determine how much film you need. Add a few extra inches to each dimension for trimming.
- Choose the right film: Research different brands and types of laser window film. Look for a film with a low SHGC (ideally below 0.3) and a VLT that you’re comfortable with. Read reviews and compare prices.
- Clean your windows thoroughly: This is crucial for proper adhesion. Use a window cleaner and a squeegee to remove all dirt, dust, and grime.
- Apply the film: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Typically, this involves spraying the window with a soapy water solution, applying the film, and using a squeegee to remove air bubbles.
- Trim the edges: Use a sharp utility knife to trim the excess film around the edges of the window.
- Monitor your energy usage: Track your electricity bills before and after installing the film to see how much you’re saving.
But what about the cost? A high-quality laser window film can cost anywhere from $5 to $15 per square foot. For our 1,200 square foot bungalow, let’s assume you’re applying film to 200 square feet of windows. That’s a potential cost of $1,000 to $3,000. This is a significant upfront investment.
Now, let’s compare this to the cost of running your AC. According to Austin Energy, the average residential customer uses about 1,000 kWh of electricity per month. During the summer, this can easily double or triple. Let’s assume your AC accounts for 50% of your electricity bill during the summer. If your average electricity bill is $200 per month, your AC is costing you $100 per month.
If the laser window film reduces your AC usage by 20%, you’ll save $20 per month. At that rate, it would take 50 to 150 months (4 to 12.5 years) to recoup your initial investment. This doesn’t even factor in the cost of labor if you hire someone to install the film.
The challenge is that the actual savings can vary greatly depending on your specific circumstances. Factors like the age and efficiency of your AC unit, the insulation in your home, and your personal thermostat settings all play a role.
Here’s a more nuanced approach:
- Prioritize insulation: Before investing in window films, make sure your home is properly insulated. This is often the most cost-effective way to reduce heat gain.
- Use smart thermostats: A smart thermostat can automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule, saving you energy when you’re not home.
- Combine strategies: Don’t rely solely on window films. Use them in conjunction with fans, dehumidifiers, and other cooling methods.
- Consider professional installation: While DIY installation can save you money, professional installation ensures proper application and can maximize the film’s effectiveness.
Ultimately, whether or not laser window films are worth the investment depends on your individual circumstances. They can be a valuable tool for reducing heat gain and saving energy, but they’re not a magic bullet. A combination of strategies, including proper insulation, smart thermostat usage, and strategic use of fans and dehumidifiers, is often the most effective way to stay cool and save money in the Austin heat. Don’t fall for the hype; do your research and make an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget.