During the summer, air conditioning costs increase in tandem with the outside temperature. Though running an air conditioner continuously may seem challenging to some, you can significantly lower your cooling costs without compromising comfort by making a few minor changes. This article will review several strategies to help you keep your cooling bills down this summer. We will provide you with actionable information, ranging from simple modifications to your lifestyle to taking advantage of initiatives and incentives to help you battle the heat while keeping your wallet happy.

Maintain Your HVAC System

1. Routine maintenance: Scheduling routine maintenance for your HVAC system can help prevent failures and extend its life. A competent technician can clean the unit, inspect it for problems, and verify it works efficiently.
2. Replacing air filters: Regularly changing your air filters will enhance your HVAC system’s efficiency and lower the energy it consumes. Clogged air filters force your system to work harder, increasing energy expenditures.
3. Inspect and seal ductwork for leaks: Leaky ducts can waste up to 30% of the cool air that your HVAC system produces, forcing it to function more and raising your energy costs. Leak detection and duct sealing can dramatically increase system effectiveness and long-term cost savings.

Adjust Your Thermostat

Adjusting your thermostat is one of the easiest ways to keep your cooling costs manageable this summer. Here’s what you need to do:

Set the thermostat to an optimal temperature

Setting your thermostat to an optimal temperature can help you save on cooling costs. The ideal temperature for your home is 75–78 degrees Fahrenheit during summer. For every degree you raise the temperature above 78 degrees, you can save up to 5% on your cooling costs.

Use a programmable thermostat

Investing in a programmable thermostat can help you save money on cooling costs by automatically adjusting the temperature based on your schedule. You can set your thermostat to a higher temperature when you’re not at home, and it will automatically lower the temperature when you return, ensuring you’re comfortable without wasting energy.

Utilize fans

Ceiling and portable fans can help you feel cooler without lowering the thermostat’s temperature. Fans create a wind-chill effect, making you feel up to 4 degrees cooler than the actual temperature. Therefore, you can raise your thermostat a few degrees and still feel comfortable with the help of fans.

Make Lifestyle Changes

Making lifestyle changes can also help you manage your cooling costs during the summer. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Block out sunlight

Sunlight can significantly heat your home, causing your HVAC system to work harder to keep it cool. Therefore, blocking out sunlight is essential to keep your home cooler. You can use curtains, blinds, or shades to block out sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. You can also install reflective window film to reduce the heat that enters your home through your windows.

Use energy-efficient appliances

Using energy-efficient appliances can help you save money on cooling costs. Appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines consume a lot of energy, and using them during the hottest parts of the day can cause your HVAC system to work harder. Therefore, using these appliances during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late night, is essential to reduce energy consumption.

Unplug electronics when not in use

Electronics like televisions, computers, and gaming consoles consume energy, known as standby or phantom energy, even when not in use. Unplugging these electronics when not in use can help you save money on cooling costs. Alternatively, you can use power strips with on/off switches to turn off multiple electronics simultaneously, ensuring they’re not consuming energy when not in use.

Assistance Programs

There are programs available that can assist with energy bills. One such program is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

LIHEAP is a federally-funded program that assists underprivileged families in meeting their energy needs, including cooling costs during the summer months. The program is administered by the Department of Health and Human Services and provides financial assistance to eligible households to help cover the cost of energy bills.

To be eligible for LIHEAP, households must have an income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. Eligibility varies by state, so checking with your local LIHEAP office for specific guidelines is important.