How to Lower Your AC Costs Without Sacrificing Comfort

Simple, effective ways to reduce your AC bills without losing comfort especially during LA & OC’s hottest months.

Keeping your home cool during a California heatwave doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With energy bills on the rise and AC systems working overtime, it’s more important than ever to find ways to stay comfortable without overloading your HVAC or your budget.

Use Your Thermostat Wisely

Set your thermostat as high as is comfortable 78°F is ideal when you’re home, and higher when you’re away. Consider a smart thermostat that automatically adjusts based on your habits and outside temperatures, helping you save energy effortlessly.

Close Blinds and Curtains

Direct sunlight can heat your home fast. Block it out with blackout curtains or blinds during the hottest parts of the day. This simple move can reduce indoor temperatures by several degrees without touching the thermostat.

Schedule Routine HVAC Maintenance

A clean, tuned-up AC works more efficiently and uses less energy. Routine HVAC maintenance ensures your system is operating at peak performance and helps you avoid breakdowns during extreme heat.

Avoid Heat-Producing Appliances

Ovens, dryers, and even some lighting can add unnecessary heat inside your home. Use microwaves, air fryers, or outdoor grills instead. Run dishwashers and laundry machines in the evening to minimize daytime heat buildup.

Improve Home Insulation

Proper insulation isn’t just for winter. Sealing windows and doors, adding weather stripping, and improving attic insulation can help keep cool air in and hot air out reducing your AC’s workload.

Use Ceiling Fans to Your Advantage

Ceiling fans don’t lower the temperature, but they do make you feel cooler by moving air across your skin. This allows you to raise the thermostat by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. Make sure your fan blades are spinning counterclockwise in the summer it pushes cool air down and helps circulate it throughout the room.

Also, turn off fans when you leave the room. Unlike AC units, fans cool people not spaces so there’s no need to keep them running when no one’s around. By pairing ceiling fans with smart thermostat settings, you can reduce strain on your HVAC system and cut down on electricity usage during peak hours.

Seal Ductwork and Upgrade Air Filters

Leaky air ducts can waste up to 30% of your cooling energy. Consider having your ductwork inspected and sealed professionally. Additionally, upgrading to high-efficiency air filters not only improves indoor air quality but also helps your system run smoother. Clogged filters restrict airflow, making your AC work harder and use more energy.

Opt for Energy-Efficient AC Units

If your current system is more than 10 years old, it might be time to upgrade. Newer models with ENERGY STAR® certification consume significantly less electricity and perform better in extreme conditions. Investing in a new unit can result in long-term savings, especially if combined with available rebates or tax credits.

Stay Cool with Smartchoice Service

Our team at Smartchoice Service is here to help you keep your system efficient and your home comfortable. From AC repair to full air conditioner installation, we’ve got your back this summer.

📞 Call (714) 465 1135 or  schedule your energy-saving inspection online.