• Home
    • residential Service

      commercial service

How to Reduce Air Conditioning Costs During Summer

reduce air conditioning costs

As the summer months approach and temperatures rise, finding ways to reduce air conditioning costs becomes a priority for many households. In this blog post, we will discuss several tips on how to lower cooling costs, starting from the easiest and cheapest methods, to more advanced and potentially expensive solutions. Stay cool and save money on air conditioning with these practical and effective strategies.

9 Ways to Reduce Air Conditioning Costs

When you want to stay cool and comfortable but don’t want to break the bank, here’s where to start:

Adjust Your Thermostat

One of the simplest ways to save money on air conditioning is to adjust your thermostat settings. You may wonder, “What temperature should I keep my AC on to save money?” The Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F (25.5°C) while you are at home and slightly higher when you are away. By raising the temperature, you can reduce air conditioning costs by 3-5% for every degree above 72°F (22°C).

how to lower cooling costs

Utilize Fans

Using fans is an energy-efficient way to keep your living space cool without relying solely on your air conditioning system. Ceiling fans can help circulate cool air throughout the room, allowing you to raise the thermostat temperature by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. Remember to turn off fans when you leave the room, as they cool people, not spaces.

Block Out the Sun with Window Treatments

Direct sunlight can significantly heat up your home, causing your air conditioner to work harder and consume more electricity. To reduce air conditioning costs, close blinds, and curtains during the hottest part of the day, especially on windows facing east and west.

Consider investing in energy-efficient window treatments, such as thermal-backed drapes or reflective blinds, to block out the sun more effectively.

Plant Shade-Giving Trees and Plants

Strategically planting trees, shrubs, and vines around your home can provide shade and reduce air conditioning costs. Deciduous trees, which lose their leaves in winter, are ideal for providing shade during summer months while allowing sunlight to warm your home during colder months.

Plant shade-giving trees and plants on the east and west sides of your home to block the sun’s rays when they are strongest.

Limit Heat-Generating Appliances

Using heat-generating appliances like ovens and stovetops can increase the temperature in your home, making your air conditioner work harder. To reduce cooling demands, try cooking with a slow cooker, microwave, or grill instead.

Additionally, run your dishwasher and clothes dryer during cooler parts of the day or evening to minimize their impact on your air conditioner’s workload.

save money on air conditioning

Seal Your Home

Air leaks around doors, windows, and other openings can cause your air conditioner to work overtime, leading to higher energy bills. Inspect your home for gaps and cracks, then seal them with weatherstripping, caulking, or foam sealant.

Sealing your home not only helps reduce air conditioning costs but also keeps your home more comfortable year-round.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your air conditioning system is crucial to ensure it runs efficiently. Replace or clean air filters monthly during peak usage months, as dirty filters can restrict airflow and make your system work harder.

Additionally, have your air conditioner inspected and serviced by a professional annually to keep it in optimal condition.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Investing in a programmable thermostat can help you save money on air conditioning by automatically adjusting the temperature according to your schedule. This way, you can avoid cooling an empty house and focus on maintaining a comfortable temperature when you’re home.

Smart thermostats also offer additional features, such as remote control and energy usage tracking, to help you further reduce air conditioning costs.

Upgrade Your AC System

If you have an older air conditioning system, it may be less energy-efficient than newer models. Upgrading to a more efficient system can significantly reduce air conditioning costs over time. Look for models with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating, as these will be more energy-efficient. Additionally, consider choosing an appropriately sized air conditioner for your space to avoid overcooling and increased energy consumption.

Reducing air conditioning costs during the summer months doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a combination of smart habits, home improvements, and regular maintenance, you can keep your living space comfortable without breaking the bank. If you need assistance with air conditioner installation, repairs, or maintenance, trust Dependable Heating & Air for professional AC installation and repair service. Stay cool this summer and keep your energy costs under control with these helpful tips.

Troubleshoot Error Codes

carrier furnace error codes
Heating

What Do Carrier Furnace Yellow Light Codes Mean? Your Ultimate Guide to Error Codes

When the light on your Carrier furnace is yellow and flashing, it’s like your furnace …

Read More
Goodman Air Conditioner Codes
Air Conditioner

Goodman Air Conditioner Codes: Troubleshooting Common Goodman AC Failures

Your Goodman AC may flash codes if it detects a failure. Understanding the Goodman Air …

Read More
Maintenance

How to fix the American Standard HVAC 3 Flash Error Code

Wondering how to troubleshoot the American Standard HVAC 3 Flash Error Code? We cover the 3, 2, & 22 flash error codes.

Read More

Breathe Cleaner Fresher Air

Save $204 on iWave Air Purifier installation and get a free HVAC tune-up.
SAVE $204
Air Ducts Making Noise
Air Conditioner

Are Your Air Ducts Making Noise? This Could Be Why.

Have you been dealing with air ducts making noise constantly in your home? The sound …

Read More
reduce air conditioning costs
Air Conditioner

How to Reduce Air Conditioning Costs During Summer

As the summer months approach and temperatures rise, finding ways to reduce air conditioning costs …

Read More
Mini Split vs Central Air
Air Conditioner

Pros and Cons of Mini Split vs Central Air: Which Is Best?

Summer is coming and with it comes the need for some cool relief. If you’re …

Read More
hvac filter type
Maintenance

What HVAC Filter Type is Best For Your Home?

As the seasons change, we all know how bad allergies can get. But did you …

Read More
AC Not Blowing Cold Air
Air Conditioner

Troubleshooting Your AC Not Blowing Cold Air

If you’re feeling warm and uncomfortable inside your home despite having your air conditioning on, …

Read More

want a $45 service call?

We'll send you a sweet 50% disount coupon you can use on any HVAC service call when you subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

atlanta water attractions free
Local

Best Places to Cool Off in Atlanta: Atlanta Water Attractions

It’s called “Hotlanta” for a reason. Whether you live here or you’re planning on visiting, …

Read More
air purifier prevent covid-19
Air Conditioner

Can an Air Purifier Prevent Coronavirus?

When waging the war against coronavirus, having multiple tactics in our arsenal seems to be …

Read More
can i get BBQ delivered
Local

5 Best BBQ Delivery Atlanta Restaurants

For a true BBQ fan, few cities offer more authentic options than Atlanta. But while …

Read More