As the days start to cool, your AC bill doesn’t have to stay sky-high. Believe it or not, cutting those costs is easier than you think. Some of these tricks are so simple you’ll wish you had known them sooner.
Ready to save big before the season ends? I researched and collected 12 clever ways to keep your home cool and your wallet fuller.
Quick Fixes for Instant Savings
These quick, easy changes can save you money right now and get your AC ready for the change in seasons.
1. Optimize Your Outdoor AC Setup – A Simple Trick
Ever thought about how the area around your AC unit affects its performance? You might be missing an easy win here.
- Heat-Reflective Paint: A fresh coat of light-colored, heat-reflective paint around your unit can lower surface temperatures by up to 28°F. Cooler surroundings mean your AC doesn’t have to work as hard.
- Natural Shade: Planting trees or shrubs can provide shade—but don’t block the airflow. The right balance cools the area and makes your AC more efficient.
- Clear the Area: Got plants or debris too close to the unit? Keep a 2-3 foot space around your AC to maintain unobstructed airflow.
Did You Know? A well-maintained outdoor AC unit can be up to 15% more efficient than one that’s neglected.
Action Step: Clear any clutter around your AC unit and think about adding heat-reflective paint for an instant boost.
We sometimes include affiliate links and curated AI content to highlight top design styles.
Want more shade for your outdoor spaces? Learn how to attach a shade sail to your house for added comfort and reduced cooling costs.
2. Thermostat Settings That Save Money
Does your thermostat work smarter, not harder? You could be missing out on some serious savings by not optimizing your settings.
- Temperature Schedules: Why cool an empty house? Set the temperature higher when you’re away and cool down just before you get back.
- “Fan-Only” Mode: Cooler evenings? Switch to “fan-only” mode to circulate air without the compressor kicking in.
- Geofencing: Imagine your home cooling down just as you pull into the driveway—without you lifting a finger. Geofencing adjusts settings based on your location.
Did You Know? For every degree you raise your thermostat above 72°F (22°C), you could save 1-3% on your cooling costs!
Action Step: Take a minute to program your thermostat to run 7-10 degrees warmer when you’re out or asleep.
3. Ceiling Fans – The One Change That Saves Big
You might think ceiling fans are just for moving air around, but there’s more to them than meets the eye.
- Fan Direction: Did you know ceiling fans have a summer setting? Set them to rotate counterclockwise to create a breeze that cools the room, letting you raise the thermostat without losing comfort.
- Adjust Fan Speed: Higher speed for bigger rooms or more activity, lower for smaller spaces or less activity. It’s all about airflow efficiency.
Did You Know? Using ceiling fans can let you raise your thermostat by up to 4°F without feeling the difference!
Action Step: Check your ceiling fan’s direction. If it’s not spinning counterclockwise, flip the switch.
Have vaulted ceilings? Discover the best ceiling fans to keep the air flowing and reduce your cooling costs.
4. Smart Window Solutions to Block Heat
Did you know your windows could be adding up to 30% of unwanted heat to your home? Don’t worry—there are simple ways to block that heat and give your AC a break.
- Thermal Curtains & Blinds: Think of these as your home’s sunglasses. They block or reflect sunlight, keeping indoor temperatures lower and your cooling costs down.
- Heat-Blocking Window Film: Got south- or west-facing windows? These are the biggest culprits. Adding heat-blocking film can cut solar heat gain by up to 78%!
- Smart Automation: Motorized blinds or curtains adjust based on the sun’s position or room temperature, helping keep your home cool automatically.
Did You Know? Proper window coverings can significantly reduce heat entering your home, improving comfort and lowering your bill.
Action Step: Today, close blinds or curtains on sun-facing windows during the hottest parts of the day.
Looking to upgrade your window treatments? Find out if Roman shades are the right choice for blocking light and keeping your home cool.
5. Clean AC Filters – Avoid Hidden Costs
Feel like your AC is overworking? The culprit might be dirty filters, which can boost energy use by up to 15%. The good news: it’s an easy fix.
- Monthly Checks: Clean or replace filters regularly to prevent clogs and maintain smooth airflow. The payoff? Up to 15% lower energy use.
- Air-Refreshing Filters: Want a bonus? Try filters with built-in air freshening tech, like carbon-infused or odor-reducing filters. They keep your home smelling fresh while maintaining efficiency.
Did You Know? Neglecting filters costs money and wears down your AC over time. Keep them clean, and your system runs smoothly.
Action Step: Take a minute to check your AC filter. Is it dirty? If so, clean it or replace it. Then, set a reminder on your phone to do it again next month.
6. Use Appliances Wisely to Cut Cooling Costs
Notice how cooking or drying laundry heats your home? Heat-generating appliances can raise indoor temperatures and strain your AC, but a few smart moves can help keep both heat and costs in check.
- Strategic Timing: Run ovens, dishwashers, and dryers during the cooler parts of the day—early morning or late evening. Why add heat when it’s already blazing outside?
- Grill Outside: Why not move the heat outdoors? Use a grill for summer cooking instead of the stove or oven.
- Use Cold Water: Washing clothes in cold water and air-drying them isn’t just good for your clothes—it’s good for your wallet, too.
Did You Know? Your dryer alone can raise your room temperature by 5-10°F. Running it at night can help keep your home cooler during the day.
Action Step: Tonight, plan to run your dishwasher or laundry after 8 PM. It’s a simple shift that could make a big difference.
Smart Upgrades That Pay You Back
Think it’s too late for AC upgrades? It’s not. A few smart changes now can keep your home cooler next summer and boost efficiency year-round. Let’s explore some worthwhile upgrades.
Need more ways to block heat from entering your home? Check out these 5 effective hacks to keep your rooms cooler.
7. Seal Ductwork for Maximum Efficiency
Ever wonder where all that cool air goes? If your ducts aren’t sealed, much of it could be escaping before it reaches your rooms. Sealing and insulating ductwork is a smart way to keep your AC running efficiently—and it’s easier than you think.
- Seal Leaks: Unsure if your ducts are leaking? Run a smoke pencil or incense stick along the ductwork—if the smoke wavers, there’s a leak. Seal it with mastic or foil-backed tape.
- Insulate Ducts in Hot Areas: Got ducts in your attic or crawl space? Insulating them with reflective bubble wrap or foam insulation blankets keeps cool air from warming up on the way to your living areas.
Did You Know? Leaky ducts can reduce your HVAC system’s efficiency by up to 20%! That’s like paying for cool air you never even feel.
Action Step: This weekend, inspect any visible ductwork for leaks or gaps. Mark any problem areas for sealing.
8. Keep Drain Lines Clear to Prevent Damage
It’s easy to overlook your AC’s drain lines—until they clog. Keeping them clear prevents water damage and keeps your system running smoothly. Regular maintenance can save you thousands in repairs.
- Flush Regularly: Use a wet/dry vacuum or a condensate line cleaner to flush out clogs, mold, and algae.
- Use Algaecide Tablets: These handy tablets go in the drain pan and keep the lines clear longer, reducing how often you need to flush.
Did You Know? A clogged drain line isn’t just an inconvenience—it can cause serious water damage, costing you thousands.
Action Step: Find your AC’s drain line exit (it’s usually outside near the unit). Make sure water is flowing freely when the AC is on. If not, it’s time for a flush.
9. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat Now
Smart thermostats adjust your home’s temperature based on your daily routine, saving you energy and money. They offer a convenient way to maintain comfort without wasting energy.
- Adaptive Learning: These devices learn your schedule and automatically adjust temperatures so you never heat or cool an empty house.
- Remote Access: Control your home’s temperature from anywhere using your smartphone—perfect for changing plans on the go.
- Energy Usage Insights: Smart thermostats provide detailed reports on your energy use and suggest ways to save even more.
Did You Know? Smart thermostats can reduce your heating and cooling costs by up to 10-12% on average!
Action Step: Research smart thermostat models that work with your HVAC system. You might even find utility company rebates to help cover the cost.
Long-Term Strategies for Bigger Savings
Planning to wait until spring for those bigger upgrades? Think again. The off-season is ideal for major improvements—you’ll avoid the rush and be ready when the summer heat returns.
10. Get an AC Tune-Up Before It’s Too Late
Regular professional maintenance keeps your AC running efficiently and helps prevent unexpected breakdowns. An annual tune-up can catch minor issues before they turn into costly repairs.
- Tune-Up Essentials: A comprehensive tune-up includes checking refrigerant levels, cleaning coils, tightening electrical connections, and inspecting for duct leaks.
- Consider a Home Energy Audit: An energy audit goes further, identifying where your home is losing energy and highlighting opportunities for savings beyond your AC system.
Did You Know? Regular maintenance can extend your AC’s lifespan by 3-5 years! That’s a few more summers of cool, worry-free comfort.
Action Step: Schedule a professional AC tune-up. Many HVAC companies offer off-season discounts.
11. Upgrade to a High-Efficiency AC Unit
Thinking about a new AC unit? High-SEER AC units offer powerful cooling with far less energy. If your current unit is over 10 years old, this could be your chance to upgrade and save.
- Benefits of High-SEER Units: These units can be up to 50% more efficient than older models and often include smart technology for precise control. Less energy, better cooling!
- Proper Sizing is Key: But don’t just grab the biggest unit you can find. An AC that’s too large or too small can lead to inefficiencies and uneven cooling.
Did You Know? Upgrading from a SEER 9 to a SEER 16 unit can cut your cooling costs by 30-50%, depending on your climate and usage patterns.
Action Step: If your AC is over a decade old, it’s time to start looking at high-SEER options. Get quotes from at least three HVAC pros.
Preparing for the Fall Season Ahead
As the weather cools down, it’s a great time to give your AC a break and transition to natural cooling methods. These strategies will help you stay comfortable while easing into the fall season.
12. Shift to Natural Cooling Strategies
What if you could stay comfortable without relying on your AC so much? Natural cooling strategies make it possible as temperatures start to drop.
- Optimize Window Usage: Open windows at night to let cool air in and use fans to create cross-ventilation. During the day, close blinds or curtains to keep the heat out.
- Smart Landscaping: Plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of your home to provide summer shade and allow sunlight in during winter.
- Adjust Settings: Don’t forget to reverse your ceiling fan direction, cover window units, and clean gutters to control humidity and airflow better.
Did You Know? Natural ventilation can reduce your cooling needs by up to 30-50% in moderate climates, depending on your home’s specific conditions.
Action Step: Tonight, open your windows and use fans to bring in cool night air. Close them in the morning to retain the coolness as the day heats up.
Your Next Steps to Reduce Cooling Costs
Put these tips into action now. Start with simple steps like adjusting your thermostat or clearing the space around your outdoor AC unit.
Small changes add up, keeping your home cooler, cutting down bills, and improving comfort through late summer and beyond.
These tips aren’t just about immediate savings—they also prepare you for next summer. Handling maintenance and upgrades now means fewer headaches and lower costs later.
Final Action: Pick one tip to start today and tackle another each week. By next summer, your home will be ready for efficient, cost-effective cooling!
As you wrap up summer and prepare for cooler days, don’t forget to tackle essential fall home maintenance tasks to keep your house in top shape before the weather changes.
