15 Ways to Reduce Air Conditioning Costs

Are you burdened by increasing utility expenses this summer? To reduce AC costs without sacrificing comfort, you should adopt energy-saving behaviors, implement low-cost changes and make strategic long-term investments. Here are 15 proven tips to consider.

Adopt Good Energy Habits

Cutting AC expenditures may be easier than you think. Here are some completely free ways to ease your monthly utility bills:

1. Keep curtains and blinds closed: Around 76 percent of the sunlight that hits standard double-pane windows enters as heat. By closing out the sun by pulling insulating curtains and blinds over your south- and west-facing windows, you minimize solar heat gain in the afternoon and reduce the necessity for air conditioning.

2. Turn up the temperature: You can save up to three percent on your cooling bills for each degree you raise the temperature. Try cranking up the temperature on your thermostat a little higher than usual and running a fan to make up the difference.

3. Turn off the lights when not in use: Lights, especially incandescent bulbs, create a lot of heat. Turning them off when you leave the room reduces the interior heat gain your AC must combat.

4. Use appliances strategically: Wait to use heat-generating appliances like the oven, dryer and dishwasher until the cooler time of the day. This approach lightens your AC’s burden during the hot afternoon, bringing down your bill and improving home comfort.

5. Run kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans: Eliminate heat and humidity while cooking and showering to reduce the workload on your air conditioner.

Invest in Low-Cost Upgrades

If you’re willing to spend a few dollars, you can put an even bigger dent in your air conditioning expenses. Here are some low-cost upgrades to consider:

6. Install a programmable thermostat: If you still have a manual thermostat, look into upgrading. A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature based on your schedule. You can cut AC costs by up to 10 percent by setting the temperature back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours each day. Thanks to automatic recovery periods, you can enjoy these savings without inconvenience or discomfort.

7. Schedule regular maintenance: Your air conditioner should have regular checkups to make sure it runs properly and efficiently. Maintenance visits every spring also offer a chance to detect and take care of minor issues before they grow into expensive repairs. This small, predictable cost provides a significant return on investment through increased efficiency and prolonged equipment life span.

8. Seal leaks: In many homes, leaky windows and doors cause about 25 percent of its cooling energy use. Seal those pesky leaks with caulk and weatherstripping.

9. Use reflective window film: Window film reflects the sun’s rays to the outside, decreasing solar heat gain. This budget-friendly upgrade is a great way to improve your older windows’ efficiency without replacing them.

10. Upgrade to LED lights: LEDs produce almost no heat and consume far less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. These qualities help keep your home cooler and reduce lighting costs as well.

Consider Long-Term Home Investments

If you’re ready to make more significant modifications, consider the following investments to cut AC costs in the long run:

11. Insulate the attic: Hot air can seep through the ceiling if your attic is not adequately insulated. Peek inside the attic, and if you don’t see a deep, even layer of insulation, consider adding more. Depending on what kind of insulation you select, you may need to employ a professional for the job.

12. Plant trees for natural shade: Planting leafy trees on the south and west sides of your house blocks sunlight and creates a cool microclimate around your home, naturally cutting down on your cooling needs.

13. Replace your windows: Old, single-pane windows let in a lot of heat, requiring your AC to work harder. Installing double- or triple-pane windows with advanced glazing features elevates your home’s air-tightness and keeps the interior cooler.

14. Upgrade your AC system: Running an aging air conditioner costs more than you might think. Upgrading from a decade-old 10 SEER model to a modern 15 SEER unit can save you 33 percent on your air conditioning costs. The savings potential of this purchase is even higher if you’re prepared to invest more up front.

15. Install solar panels: Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity to power your AC unit and other electric appliances. The ongoing savings, combined with tax incentives available through 2035, make this a worthwhile investment.

Save More on Your AC in Fort Worth With Help From Calverley Service Experts

At Calverley Service Experts, we make the extra step to deliver exceptional HVAC services that help cut air conditioning costs in the long run. Because of our high-quality products, Expert knowledge, and attention to detail, we feel confident backing our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. To learn more about how we can help minimize your summer AC costs, please contact the Experts at Calverley Service Experts. Schedule your appointment by calling 817-380-5647 today!