If your air conditioner seems to run nonstop and your electric bill keeps climbing, you’re not alone. But there are practical, easy ways to stay comfortable and still save money. You don’t need fancy gadgets or major upgrades to cut cooling costs—just a few smart habits and tweaks around the house.
Start with Your Thermostat if You Want to Cut Cooling Costs
One of the simplest ways to save on cooling costs is by setting your thermostat wisely. If you bump it up just a few degrees, your AC won’t have to work as hard. For most people, 76 to 78 degrees during the day is a comfortable and efficient range. At night or when you’re not home, set it even higher or turn it off completely. A programmable thermostat makes this easy by adjusting temperatures for you automatically.
If your thermostat is old or placed in a hot part of the house, like near a sunny window or an oven, it can give inaccurate readings. That means your AC could be running more than it needs to. Moving it to a central location away from direct heat sources can help it work better.
Use Ceiling Fans the Right Way
When used properly, fans can make a big difference. A ceiling fan creates a wind-chill effect that makes the air feel cooler, even if the temperature hasn’t changed. That means you can raise your thermostat a few degrees and still feel comfortable.
Just make sure your ceiling fans are spinning counterclockwise during the summer. This pushes air downward, creating a breeze. And if no one’s in the room, turn them off.
Keep the Sun Out to Cut Cooling Costs
Sunlight streaming through your windows can heat up your home fast. That forces your AC to work harder than it should. During the day, close blinds, shades, or curtains, especially on the south and west sides of the house. If you want to take it a step further, invest in blackout curtains or reflective window film to block more of the sun’s heat.
If you’re planning long-term improvements, planting shade trees or installing awnings can also cut down on solar heat entering your home.
Seal Up Air Leaks
If cool air is leaking out and hot air is sneaking in, your AC is constantly fighting an uphill battle. Check for gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and vents. You can usually feel them on a breezy day or with a simple candle test—watch for the flame flickering near the edge of a window or doorframe.
Use caulk to seal cracks and weatherstripping to tighten up doors. If your attic or crawl space isn’t insulated well, that’s another place where you could be losing a lot of cooled air.
Limit Heat from Appliances
Every time you turn on the oven, stove, dishwasher, or clothes dryer, you’re adding heat to your house. That means your AC has to work harder to cool things back down. Try to use these appliances early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler outside.
Even better, grill outdoors or use smaller appliances like a microwave or air fryer, which don’t throw off as much heat. Switching to LED light bulbs can also help—they give off less heat and use less energy than traditional ones.
Keep Your AC in Top Shape
Your air conditioner can’t do its job well if it’s clogged with dust or running inefficiently. Make it a habit to change your air filter every month or two during heavy use. A dirty filter restricts airflow, which forces your system to work harder and use more energy.
It’s also smart to have your HVAC system serviced at least once a year. A professional can clean the coils, check for refrigerant leaks, and make sure everything is running as efficiently as possible.
Don’t Cool Rooms You Don’t Use
There’s no need to cool your entire house if you’re only using a few rooms. Close the vents in spare bedrooms, guest bathrooms, or storage areas. If your system allows for zoning, you can set different temperatures for different parts of the house, which is an even better way to cut energy use.
Even if you don’t have zoned cooling, keeping doors closed to unused rooms will help focus cool air where you actually need it.
FAQs on Ways to Cut Cooling Costs
What’s the best temperature to set my thermostat during the summer?
For most people, 76 to 78 degrees is comfortable and energy-efficient. If you’re away from home or sleeping, you can raise it even higher.
Do ceiling fans actually reduce the room temperature?
No, ceiling fans don’t lower the actual temperature. They create a breeze that makes it feel cooler, which lets you set your thermostat a bit higher and still feel comfortable.
How often should I replace my AC filter?
During peak cooling season, check your filter every month. If it looks dirty, replace it. A clean filter helps your system run more efficiently.
Is it worth getting a smart thermostat?
Yes. Smart thermostats can adjust temperatures based on your schedule, track your energy use, and help you save without thinking about it.
Can I really save money by closing vents in unused rooms?
Yes, but only if your system is designed to handle it. Some systems can be damaged by too much pressure if too many vents are closed. It’s best to close vents in moderation or talk to an HVAC pro if you’re unsure.
HomeSpec offers home inspections in North Mississippi and Southwest Tennessee. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to request an appointment.