How to Save Money on Air Conditioning: 12 Tips
June 16, 2014
If the home you grew up in was anything like ours, your mom had plenty to say about saving money—especially when it came to air conditioning. But let’s be honest: If you were anything like us, you probably didn’t listen. You weren’t footing the bill back then, and staying cool meant not caring what Mom said.
Now that you are paying the bills yourself, you might wish you had paid more attention. Don’t worry—we won’t make you admit Mom was right. Instead, we’ve gathered 12 tried-and-true tips to help you know how to save money on air conditioning. These tips are practical and effective, helping to keep your home feeling comfortable without draining your wallet.
When you need professional AC help in New Jersey, A.J. Perri is your trusted air conditioning specialist.
12 Ways to Save Money on Air Conditioning
1. Clean or Replace Your Air Filter Regularly
Your air filter is your first line of defense against dust, dirt, and debris that can clog your system. A dirty filter makes your air conditioner work harder, wasting energy and money.
Unless you’re using a three-month filter, swap it out monthly. To make it easier, buy several filters at a time and write the date for replacement on the side. You’ll be glad you did.
As an added bonus, regular air filter changes will also keep the air in your home cleaner. You can enjoy healthier indoor air while saving on monthly bills. Clean air in the home can also minimize allergic symptoms that can cause discomfort.
2. Check and Open All Air Duct Returns
It’s surprising how often people forget about air vents in less-used rooms. Closed vents force your AC to push harder to circulate air throughout the house, driving up costs. Regularly check that all vents are open and unblocked to keep your system running efficiently.
3. Use Ceiling Fans Effectively
Ceiling fans won't lower the room temperature, but they create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler. Be sure to adjust the direction of the blades every season. Your fan should rotate counterclockwise in the summer for the best cooling effect. And remember, fans keep people cool, not rooms, so turn them off when you leave.
4. Install a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
Your mom might not have had smart home tech, but she’d love the savings. Modern thermostats can be programmed to adjust your home’s temperature based on your schedule, reducing energy use while you’re away or asleep. Some even let you control remotely via computer, tablet, or smartphone.
What temperature should you set on your thermostat to save money? The Department of Energy recommends 78 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re at home and raising the temperature a little (82–85° F) when you’re away or sleeping.
5. Close Curtains and Blinds During the Day
Direct sunlight can make your AC work overtime. To block out heat, keep blinds and curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day. If possible, upgrade to blackout curtains or thermal blinds to improve insulation. Don’t overlook the simple things that add up to big savings. Your mom would be so proud.
6. Maintain Your Air Conditioning
You wouldn’t skip a tune-up on your car and expect it to run smoothly, right? Your air conditioner also needs annual maintenance to perform at its peak.
Hire a licensed technician to clean the condenser, check refrigerant levels, and ensure proper airflow over the coil. This simple step can increase your air conditioner’s efficiency and extend the life of your system.
Recommended reading: Why AC Maintenance Is Important
7. Seal Leaks and Drafts
Small gaps around windows and doors let the cooled air escape, forcing your system to work harder. Seal leaks with weather stripping and caulk to increase your system's efficiency by up to 20%. Consider insulating your attic and garage to keep the cool air inside where it belongs.
8. Upgrade Your Cooling System
Sometimes, you just have to admit it’s time to move on—especially if your AC unit has been hanging around for over 15 years. Newer, energy-efficient systems, including options from the Carrier lineup, are designed to cool your home without draining your wallet. Call A.J. Perri today at 732-733-2541 with questions about your system or if you’re considering a new unit.
Recommended reading: Why Is My Air Conditioner Frozen?
9. Reduce Heat from Cooking
Ever notice how your kitchen feels like a sauna after cooking a big meal? The heat doesn’t just make you sweat; it also makes your AC sweat. Instead of cranking up the oven on a hot day, opt to grill outside or make no-cook meals. You’ll keep your home cooler and save on energy costs.
10. Plant Trees and Shade Your Home
It turns out that a little landscaping goes a long way toward cutting energy costs. Strategically placed trees and shrubs not only boost curb appeal but also block direct sunlight from baking your house. Your AC will get a well-deserved break, and you might just get some extra shade to enjoy in your backyard as well.
11. Unplug Unused Devices
Electronics give off heat even when not in use, putting extra strain on your AC. Unplugging unused devices saves energy while helping to keep your home cooler. Admit it: That treadmill hasn’t been used in weeks—unplug it between uses.
12. Turn Off AC When Not Needed
One of the best ways to save money on air conditioning is to use it only when needed. If you’re out of the house or on vacation, turn your AC off or set it to a higher temperature. There’s no point in cooling an empty space, and the savings will add up.
How to Save Money on Your Air Conditioning with A.J. Perri
When you’re ready for service or due for a tune-up, A.J. Perri can help. We can provide expert service and personalized tips to keep your energy costs down.
Schedule a service appointment today, and we’ll help you keep your AC running smoothly.