10 Tips for Saving on Air Conditioning in the Summer

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How lowering AC usage leads to summer energy savings

Texas residents are familiar with the state’s hot, humid summers. But did you know that residential cooling costs are the biggest line item on your summer energy bills? The Energy Information Administration (EIA) calculates that air conditioning accounts for 28% of annual residential electricity usage in Texas, and it’s likely even higher in the summer, when most homes run the AC around the clock to battle the sweltering heat.

If you’re wondering how to save energy and bring down those costly summer utility bills, there’s no better place to start than regulating your home’s temperature.

Summer air conditioning tips

If you live in Texas during the summer, you can’t avoid running your AC to stay comfortable and safe. However, a few small changes around your home can help you rely on it less often..

This guide features 11 creative ways to save energy, get the most out of your AC unit in the summer, and even potentially reduce your summer electricity bills.

1. Install a smart thermostat

Smart thermostats allow you to control your home’s temperature remotely from your phone, making it easier to maintain an ideal temperature at all times. They also learn your home’s energy patterns and automatically adjust the temperature for peak efficiency. Switching to a smart thermostat can help you save on summer AC costs by adjusting your home’s temperature to consume less energy, especially during high-demand times like heat waves when electricity costs are higher.

2. Seal out the elements

Properly sealing your window frames can help improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce air conditioning costs. A loose window seal allows cool air out and hot air in, making your air conditioner work harder to keep your home cool. To check your seals, lightly wet your hand and hold it near the edges of your windows. If you feel a draft, your seal is likely letting air escape. You can easily reseal the window yourself, or you can hire a professional to fix the problem for you.

Hot outdoor air isn’t the only thing to seal out — sunlight is also a major efficiency killer in summer. For a simple way to block the sun and save energy, use shades, curtains, or blinds on your windows to maintain a more stable temperature inside.

3. Close your doors

Similar to windows, open or poorly sealed doors allow cool air to escape and warm air to enter. To avoid wasting cool air from your AC unit while it’s running, ensure all doors are closed and the caulking and weather stripping around the frames are in good condition. The same rule applies to your attic and pet doors — anywhere air can escape is an opportunity to waste energy.

4. Reduce the humidity level in your home

In many parts of Texas, humidity makes the heat that much worse. Reducing the humidity level indoors can help your AC unity operate more efficiently. Try taking shorter showers, drying your clothes on a line outside instead of using the dryer, or investing in a dehumidifier to keep the air drier inside.

5. Switch to LED lightbulbs

There are many reasons to switch to LED lightbulbs for a more energy-efficient home. One big plus for saving money on air conditioning is that LEDs generate 90% less heat than incandescent bulbs, and use 75% less energy, according to the Department of Energy (DOE). Switching to LED lightbulbs can help reduce the ambient heat in your home during the summer and limit your air conditioning usage, as well as save money on your energy bill.

6. Cook dinner outside

Running your stove and oven while cooking creates more heat inside and makes your AC work harder. During the hot summer months, consider grilling outside to keep the hot air out and reduce your AC unit’s workload. Cookouts can be one of the best ways to save energy and enjoy summer evenings with family and good food.

7. Use fans

Ceiling and floor fans can maximize the cooling effect of your AC unit. While a fan does not create cool air, it does help circulate cool air evenly around your home. This can allow you to raise your AC’s temperature a couple degrees, while helping you stay cool and reducing the cost of air conditioning during the hot summer months.

8. Run your appliances at night

Many appliances, like your dishwasher or washing machine and dryer, give off extra heat, making your air conditioner work harder to keep it cool. Running these appliances at night, when temperatures are lower, can be a simple way to save on energy. In addition, if you have a time-of-use energy plan, running your dishwasher or doing your laundry during off-peak hours may also help you save money, as some providers offer lower electricity rates during these times.

9. Turn off unnecessary appliances

Many electronics and appliances create heat when they’re on or plugged in. You can reduce the heat produced indoors by turning off appliances such as computers, televisions, gaming consoles, and even electric toothbrushes when not in use. This reduces stress on your air conditioner, resulting in energy savings and improved cooling efficiency. An added bonus: unplugging unused electronics reduces your overall electricity consumption since devices continue to drain energy even when not in use (this is called vampire energy).

10. Schedule routine AC maintenance

Regular HVAC maintenance ensures your AC system operates efficiently and can help lower energy consumption save on the cost of air conditioning. During maintenance visits, HVAC professionals inspect and clean key components, such as filters and ducts, to ensure they are free of debris that interrupts airflow and reduces efficiency. They also address wear and tear that may cause malfunction.

Scheduling regular AC maintenance saves money on your energy bills and ensures your system operates efficiently. Our experts recommend scheduling maintenance visits for spring or fall, to be sure your system is in top shape for the more extreme weather of summer and winter.

11. Understand your electric bill

One of the best ways to save on summer energy costs is to make sure you understand your energy bills. Many providers offer better rates for keeping your energy consumption at a certain level. Knowing that threshold can help you track your usage and keep costs down. Your bill will also clarify any off-peak hours when you’ll pay less for running your AC.

Frequently asked questions about summer AC savings

Is it cheaper to leave my AC unit on all day?

Yes, it’s cheaper to leave your AC on all day at a higher temperature. Turning it on and off makes your system work harder to cool your home, using more energy and potentially causing extra wear. A smart thermostat or scheduled settings can maintain comfort while maximizing efficiency.

What temperature should my AC be set at during summer?

According to ENERGY STAR, the best AC temperature for energy saving is 78 degrees Fahrenheit in summer. You can also increase the temperature while you are out of the house or asleep. The higher your thermostat is set, the less electricity your AC unit uses to cool your home.

What’s the best way to save on summer AC costs?

The best way to save money on air conditioning is to ensure your unit is well-maintained. A faulty AC unit uses more energy because it works less efficiently. If you live in an area like Texas — with hot summers that require constant air conditioning usage — having your AC unit professionally inspected before summer is crucial. Routine maintenance will address any damage to your system and ensure it’s in peak condition.

Which is cheaper, fans or AC?

Fans are cheaper to run because they simply move air, while AC units use much more energy to cool it. However, fans alone aren’t enough on very hot days. Using fans with AC can improve airflow and help you use less energy overall. Paring the two also allows you to raise your AC’s temperature a couple degrees so you can save even more on your energy bill.