Set Your Thermostat Wisely
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F (25°C) when you’re at home and increasing it when you’re away.
Raising the temperature by 7–10 degrees for several hours a day (such as during work hours) can lead to meaningful energy savings over time. For added efficiency, programmable or smart thermostats can automatically adjust settings based on your schedule and reduce unnecessary cooling.
Take Advantage of Lower Energy Rates
Many electric utilities offer programs designed to encourage off-peak energy use, including:
- Time-based rate plans, which charge less during lower-demand hours
- Energy efficiency incentives, such as rebates for home upgrades or efficient appliances
Checking with your local energy provider can help you identify opportunities to reduce costs without changing comfort levels.
Use Natural Shade and Sun Protection
Sun exposure is one of the main contributors to indoor heat gain. Blocking direct sunlight can significantly reduce the amount of cooling your home needs. Effective strategies include:
- Planting trees or shrubs near sun-facing windows
- Installing awnings, pergolas, or exterior shades
- Using thermal curtains, blackout blinds, or reflective window coverings
These measures help limit heat buildup during the hottest parts of the day.
Optimize Window Use and Ventilation
Ventilation can be an effective cooling aid when used strategically:
- Let cooler air in during the evening or early morning, then close windows during the day
- In dry climates, use ceiling fans to improve air circulation and enhance comfort
- In humid environments, dehumidifiers can reduce the strain on air conditioning systems by improving perceived comfort
Reduce the Use of Heat-Generating Appliances
Household appliances such as ovens, stovetops, and dryers generate additional indoor heat. To minimize this effect:
- Cook during cooler hours or use smaller appliances like microwaves
- Run dryers only when necessary
- Consider outdoor cooking options during extreme heat
Keep Your Air Conditioner in Optimal Condition
Routine maintenance is essential for efficient operation. A well-maintained system can reduce energy use and extend equipment lifespan. Basic maintenance tips include:
- Cleaning or replacing air filters every 1–2 months
- Inspecting and cleaning evaporator and condenser coils
- Keeping the area around the outdoor unit free of debris
Lack of maintenance can cause an air conditioner to work longer than necessary, increasing energy consumption and wear.
Seal Air Leaks and Improve Insulation
Air leaks reduce efficiency by allowing cool air to escape.
- Apply weatherstripping to doors and windows
- Seal visible gaps or cracks
- Improve insulation in ceilings or walls where possible
Proper sealing helps maintain stable indoor temperatures and reduces cooling demand.
Use Efficient Appliances and Turn Off Unused Devices
Energy-efficient appliances can significantly lower overall electricity use.
- Choose ENERGY STAR® certified devices, which typically consume less energy
- Unplug electronics when not in use to avoid standby (“phantom”) power consumption
- Use smart power strips to automatically cut power to unused devices
Consider More Efficient Cooling Systems
Older air conditioners tend to consume more energy. If your system is over 10 years old, upgrading may lead to long-term savings. More efficient options include:
- Mini-split or ductless systems, which reduce energy loss from ductwork
- Inverter-based air conditioners, which adjust output and reduce energy spikes
Use Cooler Areas of the Home
Cool air naturally settles in lower levels of a home.
- Spend time in basements or ground floors during peak heat
- Limit cooling in unused rooms
Reduce Indoor Heat with LED Lighting
Traditional incandescent bulbs generate excess heat.
- Replace them with LED lighting, which uses less energy and emits minimal heat
- This reduces both cooling demand and electricity costs
Install Solar Panels for Long-Term Savings
For homeowners seeking a long-term solution, solar panels can help offset electricity use and reduce reliance on the grid.
Potential benefits include:
- Lower overall energy consumption
- Protection against future rate increases
- Increased energy independence
Some states also offer incentives or tax credits to support solar installation.
Quick Ways to Reduce Your AC Energy Bill (5–15% Savings)
Before making major upgrades or investments, there are several low-effort actions that can immediately reduce air conditioning costs. Many of these adjustments require little to no expense and can deliver measurable savings over time.
- Clean or replace air filters regularly: Dirty filters restrict airflow and force the system to work harder. Replacing or cleaning filters every 30–60 days can reduce energy use by 5–15%.
- Adjust the thermostat by a few degrees: Setting the thermostat between 75–78°F (24–26°C) while at home helps balance comfort and efficiency. Raising the temperature 7–10°F when you’re away for several hours can lead to noticeable savings over the course of a month.
- Use ceiling fans to boost comfort: Ceiling fans improve air circulation and allow you to raise the thermostat by up to 4°F without losing comfort. Fans use significantly less electricity than air conditioners.
- Close blinds and curtains during peak sunlight hours: Blocking direct sunlight (especially on south- and west-facing windows) helps prevent indoor heat buildup and reduces cooling demand.
- Turn off cooling in empty rooms: Closing doors and vents in unused spaces prevents wasted energy and helps the system cool occupied areas more efficiently.
Tip: Small, consistent adjustments often have a greater long-term impact on energy bills than short periods of extreme cooling.
Check Airflow and Ductwork for Hidden Energy Losses
Even a well-maintained air conditioner can waste a significant amount of energy if airflow is restricted or if cooled air is leaking before it reaches living spaces. In many homes, these hidden losses go unnoticed and quietly increase electricity bills.
Inspect and Seal Air Ducts
In homes with central air conditioning, ductwork plays a critical role in distributing cool air efficiently. Poorly sealed, damaged, or uninsulated ducts can allow 20–30% of cooled air to escape into unconditioned spaces such as attics, crawl spaces, or walls.
To reduce these losses:
- Inspect visible ductwork for loose connections or damage
- Seal leaks using mastic sealant or metal-backed HVAC tape
- Ensure ducts running through unconditioned areas are properly insulated
If airflow feels weak in certain rooms or cooling is uneven, a professional duct inspection may be necessary.
Keep Vents and Registers Clear
Blocked or closed vents can disrupt airflow and increase system strain.
- Make sure vents are not covered by furniture, rugs, or curtains
- Keep supply and return registers open in occupied rooms
- Avoid closing too many vents at once, as this can unbalance the system
Proper airflow allows the air conditioner to cool more efficiently and maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Use Energy-Saving Features When Available
Some air conditioning systems include energy saver or eco modes that automatically cycle the compressor and fan to reduce unnecessary power use once the desired temperature is reached. Activating these features can help lower energy consumption without affecting comfort.
Why this matters: Improving airflow and sealing ducts often delivers noticeable energy savings without replacing the air conditioning system—making it one of the most cost-effective efficiency upgrades.
Rising energy costs don’t mean you have to give up air conditioning during the summer. In most homes, high electricity bills are the result of small inefficiencies adding up over time, from thermostat settings and maintenance habits to airflow issues and heat entering through windows and doors.
By focusing first on low-effort adjustments (such as cleaning filters regularly, using fans strategically, blocking direct sunlight, and adjusting the thermostat by a few degrees) many households can see meaningful savings without making major changes. Regular maintenance and proper airflow further ensure that your system operates efficiently when you need it most.
For longer-term improvements, enhancing insulation, sealing air leaks, upgrading aging equipment, or investing in more efficient cooling solutions can help stabilize indoor temperatures and reduce energy use year-round. The most effective approach is often a combination of habits, maintenance, and targeted upgrades, tailored to your climate and home design.
