Summer is heating up, and for some, that means that energy bills are doing the same. No one wants to spend a fortune cooling their home. Boosting your HVAC system’s summer efficiency is key to saving money. When temperatures rise, your air conditioner has to work much harder, consuming more energy.
It’s important to remember that your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system takes up the most significant energy consumption in most homes during the summer, and it works hard to keep your home cool. You can reduce costs, increase efficiency, and even help the environment with simple steps. This guide provides proven tips for lowering summer energy bills by optimizing your climate control system.
Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
Regular maintenance is fundamental to a well-performing air conditioning system and keeps your system running at its best. A professional technician will check refrigerant levels, tighten connections, and ensure all parts work together. In fact, the US Department of Energy reports that a tune-up can save you up to 15% on your monthly energy bills. During the summer, your system works harder than usual, and waiting until it breaks down can be hard on your wallet. A tune-up can:
- Improve airflow and cooling performance.
- Catch minor issues before they become expensive repairs.
- Help extend the life of your system.
Pro tip: Ask about our Happy Homes Plan for automatic seasonal tune-ups and priority scheduling.
Change Your Air Filters Regularly
Air filters can quickly become clogged or dirty, causing the HVAC system to use more energy, so be sure to replace your filters every 1–3 months to maintain peak performance. Bonus: Clean filters improve indoor air quality—especially helpful during allergy season! Don’t forget that there are contaminants in the air, and breathing them in can worsen common respiratory problems. A clean filter traps these particles, going a long way in improving your air quality.
Use a Smart Thermostat
We know it’s easy to “set it and forget it” regarding the thermostat! Prevent this by using a programmable or smart thermostat that can help you reduce cooling when you’re not home and ramp it up just before you return. Most people spend a significant amount of time at work, running errands, and during the summer months, on vacation. Considering all these hours, that’s a lot of time spent cooling your home when no one is there.
By automating your temperature settings, you can save energy without sacrificing comfort. Set the temperature at 78°F when you are home and keep it at 85°F or higher when you are away. You’ll soon see the difference in your monthly bill. It could lead you to better energy performance.
Seal Duct Leaks and Insulate
Leaky ducts can waste up to 30% of your cooled air before it even reaches your living space, and that’s money slipping through the cracks. Sealing and insulating your ducts allows you to increase efficiency and lower your energy bills. A properly sealed duct system makes your home feel more comfortable and can help achieve optimal system performance.
Keep Heat Out With Shade and Curtains
Give your climate control system a break by reducing the heat that enters your home. Over 75% of the sunlight that hits standard double-pane windows enters the house and becomes heat. Using blackout curtains, blinds, or window films to block out sunlight can help regulate the temperature and reduce energy costs. You can also plant trees or install awnings for more long-term shading solutions.
Upgrade to a High-Efficiency System
Consider the age of your system to maintain peak cooling efficiency. It may be time for an upgrade if it is 10–15 years old. These systems work hard, and as they age, efficiency diminishes due to regular wear and tear. New systems cool your home more effectively and use less energy. Check out our June specials, including rebates, trade-in credits, and 0% interest financing for 48 months on select systems.
Choose Summer HVAC Efficiency Today!
Taking the proper steps makes it easy to keep your home cool without breaking the bank. With the appropriate maintenance and smart habits, you can stay comfortable and save money all season long. Take action, and start noticing the savings! Harrington AC is here to help with professional tune-ups, system evaluations, and energy-saving upgrades. Book your service today and enjoy cool savings all summer.
