How-to
How to Lower Your Air Conditioning Costs This Summer
🇩🇪 Diesen Artikel auf Deutsch lesenSet the thermostat to about 78 °F when you're home and higher when you're away, use ceiling fans so you feel cooler at a higher setting, block the afternoon sun and keep the AC filter clean. These steps together can cut cooling costs significantly without new equipment.
Air conditioning is the biggest summer energy cost in most US homes, especially in the South and Southwest. The good news: the cheapest savings come from settings and shading, not new equipment.
Step by step
- Raise the thermostat
Aim for about 78 °F when you are home and awake. Each degree higher reduces cooling energy noticeably.
- Use a schedule
Set the temperature higher while you're at work and let the system cool the house shortly before you return.
- Block the sun
Close blinds and curtains on south- and west-facing windows during the afternoon. Exterior shades and awnings work even better.
- Change the filter
A dirty filter restricts airflow and makes the system work harder. Check it monthly in summer.
- Keep the outdoor unit clear
Remove leaves and keep plants at least two feet away so the condenser can release heat.
- Avoid heat-producing tasks
Use the microwave or outdoor grill instead of the oven, and run the dishwasher and dryer at night.
- Seal and insulate
Air sealing and attic insulation keep cool air in, just as they keep heat in during winter.
- Schedule a tune-up
A technician checks refrigerant charge, cleans coils and verifies airflow, which protects efficiency.
Ceiling fans: the cheap comfort trick
A ceiling fan uses a fraction of the power of central AC and creates a wind-chill effect that lets you raise the thermostat by about 4 °F with no loss of comfort. Turn fans off when you leave the room — they cool people, not air.
Appliance Electricity Cost CalculatorWhat does a device cost to run?Try the calculator →When to upgrade
If your system is older than 12–15 years, uses outdated refrigerant or struggles to keep up, a modern high-efficiency AC or heat pump can cut cooling energy considerably. A heat pump also replaces your heating system:
Heat Pump vs. Gas Furnace Cost CalculatorCompare yearly running costs side by sideTry the calculator →Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to leave the AC on all day?
Usually not. Raising the temperature while you're away saves energy. With heat pumps and very hot climates, keep setbacks moderate so the system can recover.
Are window AC units efficient?
Modern ENERGY STAR window units can be efficient for single rooms. Seal the gaps around them to keep hot air out.