When the summer heat hits hard, air conditioning becomes more than a luxury—it’s a necessity. But as the temperature rises, so can your energy bill. If you’re looking for how to save money on air conditioning, you’re not alone. Fortunately, you can stay comfortable without breaking the bank.
From small adjustments around the house to smarter use of your AC system, there are plenty of practical ways to reduce cooling costs. Here’s how you can cut down on your energy bill while keeping your home cool and comfortable.
1. Adjust Your Thermostat the Smart Way
Your thermostat setting can make a big difference in how much energy your air conditioner uses. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends putting your thermostat at 78°F when you’re home and increasing the temperature a few degrees when you’re away.
Each degree you raise the thermostat can save you up to 3% on cooling costs, so even a small adjustment can add up. A programmable or smart thermostat takes this a step further by automatically adjusting the temperature based on your schedule.
Most importantly, avoid making major temperature adjustments. Turning your unit off when you go out and turning it back on can actually cost you more because your unit will expend more energy bringing your room temperature down. Instead, set the temperature slightly higher while you’re away to protect your system and your electricity bill.
You don’t have to suffer in the heat—just aim for a balance between comfort and efficiency.
2. Schedule Annual AC Maintenance
One of the most surefire ways to ensure efficient AC operation is to schedule annual AC maintenance. A well-maintained system uses less energy, cools more effectively, and is less likely to break down during peak season.
During a tune-up, an HVAC technician will:
- Clean or replace filters
- Check refrigerant levels
- Lubricate moving parts
- Inspect electrical components
- Inspect condenser and evaporator coils
If your system hasn’t been serviced in the last year, now’s the time. Alternatively, if your unit looks dirty, makes noise, or isn’t operating as normal, call for service right away. It’s better to schedule maintenance now than experience a breakdown during a heat wave.
3. Seal Leaks and Insulate
Cool air can escape through leaks in windows, doors, or poorly insulated areas. When that happens, your AC has to work overtime to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Check for drafts around windows and doors, and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps. Adding insulation in your attic, basement, or crawl space can also prevent heat from entering and cool air from leaving.
The appliances and electronics in your home can also introduce heat into your home. Turning off lights and running certain appliances during the cool parts of the day or at night can also help keep the temperature in check.
4. Use Fans to Help Circulate Air
Ceiling fans and box fans don’t lower the temperature, but they help circulate cool air so you feel more comfortable. This lets you set the thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort.
In summer, ceiling fans should spin counterclockwise to push cool air downward. Just remember to turn off fans when you leave a room—they cool people, not spaces.
Combining fan use with smart thermostat settings is an easy and affordable way to lower your cooling costs.
5. Close Curtains and Blinds During the Day
Sunlight streaming through your windows can significantly heat up your home. In fact, up to 30% of unwanted heat comes from windows.
To combat this, keep curtains or blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day, especially on south- and west-facing windows. Consider installing blackout curtains or heat-blocking shades for even better results.
Blocking out the sun keeps your indoor temperature stable, meaning your AC won’t have to run as often.
6. Upgrade to a High-Efficiency AC System
If your air conditioner is more than 10–15 years old, it might be time for an upgrade. Newer units are far more efficient and come with features that help you cool your home with less energy.
Look for ENERGY STAR® certified models with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating. A higher SEER rating means better energy performance—and more money saved over time.
Though a new unit can be an investment, the long-term savings on energy bills and repairs often outweigh the initial cost. Plus, Efficient Air Service offers several options to help you finance a new system and find a system that fits your budget.
7. Change Your Air Filters Regularly
Dirty or clogged air filters reduce airflow and force your system to work harder. This not only wastes energy but also increases wear and tear on your equipment.
Check your air filters once a month, especially during high-use seasons. Most homes benefit from a filter change every 1 to 3 months, but you may need to do it more frequently if you have pets, allergies, or live in a dusty area
Clean filters help your system run smoothly, improve air quality, and save you money.
Avoid Using Heat-Generating Appliances During Peak Hours
Appliances like ovens, dryers, and even dishwashers can heat up your home. When these are used during the hottest parts of the day, your air conditioner has to work even harder.
To reduce strain on your system:
- Cook with a microwave, grill, or slow cooker
- Run the dishwasher and laundry at night
- Turn off lights, electronics, and appliances when not in use
- Small changes in daily habits can make a noticeable difference in your cooling costs.
Keep Vents Clear and Ductwork Clean
Blocked or dirty air vents can restrict airflow and reduce system efficiency. Make sure furniture, rugs, and curtains aren’t covering your vents, and vacuum them regularly to remove dust buildup.
Also, consider duct cleaning and inspection if you suspect blockages, leaks, or pest issues. Leaky ducts can waste up to 30% of conditioned air, making your system work harder and costing you more.
Take Advantage of AC Zones or Mini-Split Systems
If your home has multiple levels or areas with different cooling needs, consider installing a zoned HVAC system or ductless mini-split units. These allow you to control the temperature in individual rooms or zones, so you’re not cooling unused spaces.
Custom cooling like this leads to more targeted comfort and big savings over time.
Stay Cool and Save with Efficient Air Service
Now that you know how to save money on air conditioning, the next step is making those changes—and we’re here to help. At Efficient Air Service, we provide:
- Efficiency-boosting AC tune-ups
- High-efficiency system upgrades
- Duct cleaning and sealing
- Indoor air quality solutions
- Honest advice from licensed professionals
Whether you need quick service or a complete cooling upgrade, we make it easy to stay comfortable and cut costs. Let us help you get the most out of your air conditioning system this summer.
Call (973) 363-9191 today or schedule your service online to start saving.
