How to Lower Cooling Costs in Summer (Without Sacrificing Comfort)
Homeowners in Cherry Hill come to us with the same frustration every summer: their AC runs constantly, the house still feels warm, and the bill keeps climbing.
Fresh Air Flow sees the same fixable issues come up again and again, and the good news is most of those high cooling costs are preventable. Here’s how to lower cooling costs in summer.
TL;DR
High summer energy bills are usually caused by a combination of thermostat habits, poor airflow, and an AC system that’s working harder than it needs to. Adjusting your thermostat schedule, using ceiling fans correctly, and keeping up with AC maintenance can lower electric bills without making your home uncomfortable.
Key Takeaways
- Fans use a fraction of the energy but only help when someone is in the room
- Dirty filters and blocked vents force your system to run longer
- A smart thermostat can automate your savings without any extra effort
- A poorly maintained or undersized AC system will always cost more to run
“Why Is My Electric Bill So High in Summer?”
When we visit homes with high cooling bills, it’s almost always one of these issues:
- The AC is running longer cycles than necessary
- The thermostat is set too low
- Heat is getting in through windows, doors, or insulation faster than the AC can handle it
- The system is aging or undersized
Understanding the underlying cause matters because energy-saving tips only go so far if the system has a deeper problem.
Want to Save Money on AC Cooling? Try These Best Thermostat Settings to Save Money
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends raising your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees for 8 hours a day. Bumping indoor temperatures up while you’re away or sleeping can reduce your air conditioning bill by 10%.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat learns your schedule, adjusts automatically, and lets you control your system from your phone, so you’re not accidentally cooling an empty house all day.
If you’re not sure which model is compatible with your system, our team can help.
Use Ceiling Fans the Right Way
Ceiling fans vs. AC cost isn’t really a competition. A ceiling fan uses about as much electricity as a light bulb. Your central AC uses roughly 50 times more energy per hour.
The catch is ceiling fans cool people, not rooms. They work by creating a wind-chill effect on your skin.
The right approach: Run ceiling fans in occupied rooms and raise your thermostat 2–4 degrees. You’ll feel just as comfortable while your AC runs less.
Home Cooling Tips That Reduce Air Conditioning Bills
Keep Heat Out During Peak Hours
South Jersey summers mean intense afternoon sun. Close blinds and curtains on south- and west-facing windows between noon and 5 PM.
Don’t Generate Unnecessary Heat Indoors
Ovens, dryers, and even dishwashers add heat to your home. Running these appliances in the early morning or evening reduces the load on your AC system.
Check Your Vents and Filters
One of the most common home cooling tips we give homeowners is to check your air filter and make sure all supply vents are open and unobstructed. A clogged filter or blocked vent forces your system to work harder and run longer, which raises your electric bill. Replace your filter every 1–3 months during peak cooling season.
Seal Air Leaks
Cool air escaping through gaps around doors and windows causes cooling costs to climb. Weatherstripping and caulk are inexpensive fixes that can make a difference.
When AC Maintenance Is the Real Answer
There’s a limit to how much money you can save through habits alone. If your system is low on refrigerant, has a dirty coil, or is aging out, no thermostat setting will compensate. We recommend:
- Scheduling a tune-up to clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and look at airflow
- Asking about a Fresh Air Flow maintenance plan
If your system is 12–15 years old, ask us to evaluate whether an efficient AC replacement would save you even more money.
FAQs
How can I keep my house cool without AC?
Focus on blocking heat at the source: close blinds during peak afternoon hours, run ceiling fans in occupied rooms, seal air leaks around windows and doors, and avoid running heat-generating appliances during the hottest part of the day. These strategies work best as supplements to a properly running AC system during a heat wave.
What is the best temperature to set my AC to save money?
We recommend 78°F when you’re home and 85°F when you’re away.
Why does my AC run all day but my house is still warm?
If your AC runs constantly without reaching your set temperature, the most common causes are a clogged air filter, blocked vents, low refrigerant, dirty coils, or an undersized system.
How much can I save by upgrading to a more efficient AC?
Replacing an older system with a modern unit can significantly reduce cooling costs depending on the efficiency ratings involved. Carrier’s Infinity series offers some of the highest SEER2 ratings available and often qualifies for rebate programs that help offset the upfront cost.
Cool Smarter This Summer with Fresh Air Flow
If your electric bills are climbing despite doing everything right, there’s likely something going on with your air conditioner.
Fresh Air Flow serves Cherry Hill and South Jersey homeowners with honest assessments, no-pressure recommendations, and NATE-certified technicians who find the real cause of the problem. We offer maintenance plans and same-day service when you need it most. Call to schedule a tune-up or evaluation before the next heat wave!