9 Tips to Saving on Your Summer Air Conditioning Costs

Spring is here! While you may be enjoying the tame warm weather, summer will bring more severe heat and higher energy bills. Now is the perfect time to make sure your AC system is set up for savings this summer. These 9 tips from Bonney can help you save money on your summer AC costs while keeping your home comfortable.

Tip 1: Ensure Proper Refrigerant Levels

Every air conditioner has an exact level of needed refrigerant based on your home, system, and area. Too much refrigerant (overcharged) can damage your air conditioner. Conversely, low refrigerant levels can cause ineffective AC and high energy bills. Low refrigerant is common in both new and older systems. For more details, you can read our guide to low AC refrigerant here. 

Tip 2: Energy-Efficient Thermostat Settings

What is the best thermostat setting for summer? The best AC setting for you may vary based on your preferences and your area. To save energy (and money), the Department of Energy recommends turning your thermostat on the highest comfortable settings in the summer. 

Tip 3: Shade and Landscaping

If you are considering landscaping services, optimizing your home’s shade can help you save money on air conditioning costs. The EPA suggests that trees and vegetation can help reduce peak summer temperatures by 2–9°F. As City of Trees, this is a fitting solution for homes and businesses in the Sacramento area. 

Tip 4: AC Maintenance

Air conditioning maintenance can help you keep your system working efficiently and effectively. When your system is dirty and lacking manufacturer-recommended care, it will need to work harder to function. This extra work leads to higher energy bills and a lower system life expectancy. Thankfully, these troubles can be easily avoided with annual AC maintenance. 

Tip 5: Pair Your AC with Your Ceiling Fan

While ceiling fans and AC systems are both effective individual cooling methods, combining them can make your home more comfortable and efficient. Turning your fan on will enhance the effects of your AC system. The Department of Energy suggests that you can raise your AC thermostat by 4℉ without any change in your comfort levels when you switch on the ceiling fan. This small change can create serious savings on your energy bills. 

Remember: your ceiling fans do not lower the temperature of your rooms. They make you feel colder by creating a windchill effect. 

Tip 6: Programmable Thermostats

When your home is empty during the day, you can use your programmable thermostat to save money on your AC costs. The Department of Energy suggests lowering the thermostat of your empty home by 7°-10°F. This small adjustment can save you 10% on your HVAC energy costs. Best of all, your programmable thermostat can ensure your indoor temperature is comfortable again when you arrive home. 

Tip 7: Replace Your Air Filters

Clogged home air filters create a thick barrier between your AC system and your indoor air. As your air conditioner struggles to push air through blocked filters, it will cause your energy bills to rise. Overworking your AC system can also damage your unit. Thankfully, this issue offers an easy fix. Replace or clean your air filters regularly to keep your AC costs low. 

Tip 8: Offset Extra Energy Usage

If you are looking for additional ways to save on your summer energy bills, consider offsetting the energy impact of your AC system. Energy costs so much in the summer because usage tends to rise. Higher demands and increased usage in your home can naturally lead to cost increases. You can offset the extra energy you use for your AC system by cutting back in other areas of your home:

• Unplug chargers, appliances, and televisions when they are not in use
• Switch to LED lighting
• Wait to run your dishwasher and washing machine until you acquire full loads
• Turn off lights and fans when you are not using them
• Use the energy-efficient settings on your appliances

When you cut down on your energy waste, you can save money and lower your carbon footprint.

Tip 9: AC Repairs and Upgrades

Putting off AC repairs can lead to poor system performance and worsened unit damage. Additionally, older AC systems in need of replacement can use more energy while producing less effective results. Implementing the repairs, upgrades, and new AC installations you need can help you cut down on AC energy consumption. You can compound these savings with rebates, tax credits, coupons, and a higher home resale value. 

Bonney AC Repair, Replacement, and Maintenance Services

Are you ready to stay comfortable and save money this summer? The team at Bonney is here to help! Our experts offer trusted AC repair, replacement, installation, and maintenance services in the greater Sacramento area. We also offer thermostat replacements, upgrades, and installations—including new money-saving programmable thermostats. Bonney proudly serves homes and businesses in Natomas, Carmichael, Roseville, Citrus Heights, Folsom, Rancho Cordova, Gold River, Fair Oaks, Vacaville, La Riviera, Rosemont, and beyond! You can make your appointment here online to get started today!