Air conditioning units have become standard fixtures in Albuquerque homes, replacing swamp coolers as summers get hotter. They make it easier to enjoy summer without discomfort, which would otherwise be challenging. But as good as they are, no one can deny that they are the leading cause of rising electricity bills in summer. In fact, the Department of Energy states that air conditioners consume 6% of the total electric energy in the US. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also plays a key role in addressing energy consumption and the climate impact of increased air conditioning use. This means air conditioning significantly impacts household electricity usage, especially during peak summer months.
Air conditioning accounts for a significant portion of the average household’s energy bill or electric bill, making up a large share of overall energy costs during the warmer months. Many homeowners fall prey to the waste of energy and enormous electricity bills.
Focusing on energy efficiency and adopting cost-saving strategies can help reduce AC bills, making cooling your home more affordable. Regular HVAC maintenance and smart usage can help prevent a high AC bill and keep costs manageable. But if you are smart about it, you can reduce both of them to an acceptable level, which also has the side benefit of decreasing dangerous carbon emissions. Here is a small list of ways to help lower your air conditioning bill.
Cooling efficiency is the foundation of keeping your air conditioning costs in check while enjoying a comfortable home. The goal is to cool your home efficiently by implementing strategies that maximize comfort and minimize energy use. An air conditioning unit or air conditioning system is designed to deliver cool air, but its performance can be compromised by common issues like air leaks, clogged air filters, or poor insulation. When these problems go unchecked, your heating and cooling system has to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and unnecessary wear and tear.
To save money on your air conditioning bills, focus on optimizing your system’s efficiency. Start by regularly replacing or cleaning air filters to ensure smooth airflow and prevent your air conditioning system from overworking. Sealing air leaks around doors, windows, and ductwork will help keep cool air inside and hot air out, reducing the cooling energy required and making it easier for your air conditioning unit to maintain the desired temperature. Additionally, using ceiling fans to circulate air can help distribute cooled air more evenly, allowing you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort.
By paying attention to these details, you can significantly reduce your energy bills, lower your air conditioning costs, and enjoy a more efficient and effective cooling system all summer long. These strategies also contribute to your home's energy efficiency, providing long-term savings and environmental benefits.
When the AC is running, ensure that all the windows are closed. If the windows are open, all you are doing is allowing that cold air to escape. The warm, humid air will enter the room, bringing in warm air and making it harder to cool the space, and the cycle will be continued until you seal all the cracks and exits.
Just making sure that the windows are closed is not enough. Check if there are any cracks or holes in the frame that are allowing the air to escape. If your windows are old, it’s possible that the closed window is not enough to insulate your room, so you may need to upgrade it completely.
Sealing windows and upgrading insulation helps keep your house cool and reduces air conditioning costs.
Window treatments and shade are powerful tools for keeping your home cool and reducing air conditioning costs. The sun's rays contribute to solar heat gain by entering through your windows, quickly heating up your living spaces and forcing your air conditioning unit to work overtime. Installing energy-efficient windows, or adding blinds, curtains, or shades, can block out unwanted heat and help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Opt for window treatments that are designed to reflect or absorb heat, such as blackout curtains, solar shades, or thermal drapes. These options not only prevent heat gain but also help prevent cool air from escaping, keeping your home cool and your energy bills in check. For maximum effectiveness, choose window coverings that suit the direction your windows face—thicker, light-blocking treatments for south- and west-facing windows, and lighter options for other areas.
Energy efficient window treatments are a simple yet effective way to reduce the workload on your air conditioning unit, lower your air conditioning costs, and create a more comfortable, home cool environment. By blocking the sun's rays and reducing solar heat gain, these treatments decrease the cooling energy required to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. By making smart choices about your window coverings, you can enjoy cooler air indoors and save money throughout the hottest months.
Thoughtful landscaping can make a big difference in your home’s air conditioning costs. By strategically planting trees, shrubs, and other vegetation around your house, you can block the sun’s rays and reduce the amount of heat gain inside. The Department of Energy notes that shading your home with trees can boost your air conditioning unit’s efficiency by up to 10%.
Not only do trees and plants provide shade, but they also cool the surrounding air through a process called evapotranspiration. Landscaping can also promote fresh air circulation around your home by allowing breezes to flow and encouraging natural ventilation. By designing your yard with energy efficiency in mind, you can reduce your air conditioning bills, keep your home cooler, and create a more comfortable outdoor space—all while helping to reduce your air consumption and environmental impact.
Strategic landscaping can also help reduce energy bills by lowering your home's cooling needs.
The roof and exterior of your home play a crucial role in managing heat gain and keeping air conditioning costs down. A well-insulated roof acts as a barrier against the sun’s heat, preventing it from penetrating your living spaces and reducing the demand on your air conditioning system. Choosing a light-colored or reflective roofing material can further help by reflecting the sun’s rays, rather than absorbing them, which keeps your home cooler and reduces your air conditioning costs. By reducing heat absorption, these materials help prevent high energy bills, making your home more energy efficient.
Exterior shading devices, such as awnings, overhangs, or pergolas, are also effective at blocking direct sunlight from windows and walls. By reducing the amount of heat that enters your home, these features help maintain a cooler indoor environment and reduce your air conditioning usage. When considering upgrades, think about both the color and material of your roof, as well as the type of exterior shading that best fits your home’s design and orientation.
By addressing your roof and exterior, you can significantly reduce your air conditioning costs, minimize heat gain, and create a more comfortable living space, even during the hottest days of the year.
The appliances and lighting you use every day can have a surprising impact on your air conditioning bills. Traditional incandescent bulbs generate a lot of heat, which can raise indoor temperatures and force your air conditioning system to work harder. Swapping these out for energy-efficient LED bulbs is a simple way to reduce heat gain and lower your energy consumption.
The same goes for your household appliances—opting for ENERGY STAR-rated models can help minimize the heat generated in your home, making it easier for your air conditioning to keep things cool. Using cooking appliances like ovens and stovetops can significantly increase indoor temperatures, especially during hot weather. To avoid this, consider alternatives such as grilling outdoors or using the microwave, which produce less heat indoors.
After using heat-generating appliances, turn on your kitchen exhaust fan or exhaust fan to help remove hot, humid air and improve cooling efficiency. Similarly, using the exhaust fan after a hot shower can help remove excess heat and humidity from your bathroom, further improving your home's cooling efficiency. By making these small changes, you’ll not only reduce your air conditioning costs and electricity bills, but you’ll also create a more energy-efficient and comfortable living environment.
In Albuquerque, basements are not common due to the local climate and soil conditions, so relying on a basement as a naturally cooler space may not be an option for most homeowners. This is because heat rises, making basements cooler and attics hotter, which is why attics are a critical area to address for energy efficiency and air conditioning costs. Attics can trap heat, which then radiates down into your living spaces and increases the workload on your air conditioning system. To combat this, ensure your attic is well-insulated and properly ventilated to minimize heat gain.
For multi-story homes without basements, consider creating cool zones on lower floors or shaded outdoor spaces to help reduce reliance on air conditioning. Using awnings, pergolas, or shade sails over patios and windows on the south and west sides of your home can block the sun’s heat and reduce indoor temperatures.
Incorporating reflective roofing materials or light-colored coatings on flat roofs can also significantly reduce heat absorption. By optimizing these areas and techniques, you can help your air conditioning unit run more efficiently, lower your energy bills, and keep your home comfortable during the hottest months. Additionally, limiting air conditioning use in certain zones to eight hours or less per day can further help save energy. Closing vents or turning off the AC in unused rooms can also improve energy efficiency and reduce cooling costs.
Efficient ductwork and proper ventilation are key to getting the most out of your air conditioning system. Cleaning and maintaining your air ducts is essential for optimal airflow, energy efficiency, and preventing debris buildup that can impair cooling performance.
If your ductwork has leaks or isn’t well-insulated, cooled air can escape before it ever reaches your living spaces, leading to wasted energy and higher air conditioning bills. Central air systems rely on well-maintained ducts for efficient cooling. Sealing and insulating your ducts helps ensure that all the cooled air your air conditioning unit produces actually makes it into your home, reducing cooling costs and preventing energy loss.
Good ventilation—such as using a whole-house fan or upgrading your exhaust systems—can help remove hot air and excess moisture, making it easier for your air conditioning to keep your home cool. By addressing your ductwork and ventilation, you’ll enjoy lower energy bills, improved comfort, and a more efficient cooling system overall.
Many people go on to buy air conditioners of a size that is not appropriate for their home. Choosing the right size AC unit is essential for maximizing efficiency and achieving cost savings. Suppose you buy a bigger unit than is required; all you will accomplish is excess energy wastage. Similarly, buying a smaller-sized unit will result in the appliance working overtime to cool your room.
Choosing the right size air conditioner is crucial for both comfort and energy efficiency. An oversized unit will cycle on and off frequently, known as short cycling, which not only wastes energy but also reduces the lifespan of the system and fails to properly dehumidify the air. On the other hand, an undersized unit will run continuously, struggling to reach the desired temperature, leading to higher energy consumption and uneven cooling throughout your home.
To determine the appropriate size, factors such as the square footage of your home, ceiling height, insulation quality, window size and orientation, and local climate should be considered. Consulting with a professional HVAC technician for a proper load calculation can help you select an air conditioner that matches your home’s cooling needs. This ensures optimal performance, energy savings, and lower air conditioner costs over time.
Running AC is all well and good, but running it 24/7 is just a waste of energy. So turn off your air conditioner during the day when you are not at home. Nights are cooler than days, even in summer, so that you can turn off the AC then too.
On cool summer nights, especially in high desert climates like Albuquerque, it’s beneficial to open your windows and let the natural cool air in, taking advantage of the desert’s natural cooling. Be sure to close your windows and seal the house up again as temperatures start to rise in the morning to keep the cool air inside. Other than that, when your room has cooled down to an acceptable level, use the electric fan instead of the air conditioner.
Installing a ceiling fan can further improve air circulation and enhance indoor comfort, making your cooling efforts more effective. These strategies help you stay cool while reducing your reliance on air conditioning.
Make sure that the walls and roof of your home are properly insulated to prevent unwanted heat transfer. Proper insulation acts as a barrier, keeping cool air inside during hot weather and reducing the workload on your air conditioning system. This not only helps maintain a more consistent indoor temperature but also significantly lowers your cooling bills by reducing energy consumption.
Because lighter colors reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than darker ones, choosing a lighter color for your roof can make a noticeable difference in your home’s temperature. Light-colored or reflective roofing materials can reduce roof surface temperatures by up to 50 degrees Fahrenheit compared to darker roofs, helping to keep your home cool and your AC costs down.
In addition to roofing, investing in light-blocking curtains or window treatments is an effective way to minimize heat gain through windows. These curtains prevent the sun’s rays from penetrating your living spaces, which can otherwise raise indoor temperatures and force your air conditioning system to work harder. Consider options such as blackout curtains, solar shades, or thermal drapes, which can also improve your home's energy efficiency by insulating windows and reducing air leaks.
Together, proper insulation, reflective roofing, and strategic window treatments form a powerful combination to enhance your home's energy efficiency, lower cooling costs, and help you save money on your air conditioning bills during hot days. With better insulation and window treatments, your home will require less energy to stay cool.
Performing regular maintenance is necessary to maintain the efficiency of the air conditioning system. With the help of regular cleaning and maintenance, you can easily save a lot. Replace your HVAC filters when needed, and regularly check for any irregularities in the unit.
Regular maintenance not only improves the system’s efficiency but also extends the lifespan of your HVAC unit. Dirty or clogged air filters restrict airflow, forcing the system to work harder and consume more energy, which leads to higher air conditioning costs. By replacing or cleaning air filters every one to three months, you ensure optimal airflow and reduce energy consumption.
In addition to filters, it’s important to inspect and clean other components such as evaporator and condenser coils, as dirt buildup can reduce their ability to absorb and release heat. Checking refrigerant levels and ensuring there are no leaks also helps maintain cooling efficiency. Scheduling professional HVAC tune-ups annually can catch potential issues early and keep your system running smoothly. If you have an old air conditioner, consider replacing it with a newer, more energy-efficient model to further reduce costs and improve performance.
Proper maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and keeps your air conditioning system operating at peak performance, ultimately saving you money on your electricity bills and reducing your environmental impact.
Think of your thermostat as the command center for your home’s cooling system. While it may seem like a simple device, small adjustments to its settings and placement can have a significant impact on your energy consumption and your final electricity bill. If your thermostat is not placed correctly, it can cause your air conditioner to run much more than necessary. Proper thermostat placement is essential for accurately monitoring and maintaining your home's temperature, ensuring your HVAC system operates efficiently. Mastering your thermostat is one of the most direct and effective ways to manage your air conditioning costs.
The single most effective way to save money is to find the right balance between comfort and efficiency. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78∘F (25.5∘C) when you are home and need cooling. This setting is widely considered the sweet spot for keeping your home comfortable without forcing your air conditioner to work overtime. Every degree you raise the temperature can save you a significant percentage on cooling costs.
You don't need to keep an empty house at peak coolness. When you are away from home or sleeping, consider raising the thermostat by 7∘F to 10∘F. This simple change means your AC will run far less frequently during these periods, translating directly into energy savings. A programmable thermostat can automate this process, allowing you to create a schedule that matches your lifestyle without sacrificing comfort when you return.
The location of your thermostat significantly impacts your system's efficiency. If it gives an inaccurate reading, it can cause your air conditioner to run much more than necessary. To ensure it accurately senses your home's ambient temperature, avoid placing your thermostat:
The ideal location is on an interior wall, away from these interfering factors, giving it the most accurate reading of your living space.
Upgrading to a smart thermostat can unlock even greater savings. Smart thermostats offer advanced features like remote control, automatic scheduling, and integration with smart home systems to optimize comfort and efficiency. These advanced devices learn your daily routines and temperature preferences, automatically creating an energy-saving schedule tailored to you. Many can also be controlled remotely from your smartphone, allowing you to adjust the temperature on the go. This level of control ensures you are never wasting energy cooling an empty home, further reducing your energy bills while maximizing comfort.
Partnering with your electric company can be a smart way to save money on your air conditioning bills. Many utility providers offer special programs designed to help customers reduce their energy consumption, especially during peak hours when air conditioning costs can skyrocket. For example, time-of-use pricing plans allow you to pay lower rates for electricity used during off-peak times, making it more affordable to run your air conditioning unit when demand is low.
Some electric companies also offer demand response programs, which reward you for reducing your energy use during periods of high demand. By participating in these programs, you can directly lower your air conditioning bills and contribute to a more stable energy grid. Additionally, many providers offer free or discounted energy audits, where professionals assess your home’s energy usage and identify ways to improve efficiency—helping you pinpoint areas where you can save money and reduce your air conditioning costs.
Taking advantage of these utility programs not only helps you manage your energy bills but also encourages smarter energy consumption habits, making it easier to keep your home cool without overspending.
Small changes in your daily routine can have a big impact on your air conditioning costs and overall energy consumption. Start by using ceiling fans to circulate air throughout your home—this simple step can make rooms feel several degrees cooler, allowing you to set your thermostat higher and save money on your air conditioning bills. Ceiling fans are an energy-efficient way to enhance comfort without relying solely on your air conditioning unit.
Switching to energy-efficient appliances, such as LED light bulbs and ENERGY STAR-rated devices, can also help reduce the amount of heat generated inside your home, minimizing heat gain and lowering your cooling needs. Remember to turn off lights, electronics, and other devices when they’re not in use to further cut down on unnecessary energy consumption.
Adopting habits like cooking outdoors on hot days or using a microwave instead of the oven can prevent excess heat from building up indoors, reducing the workload on your air conditioning system. By making these energy-efficient lifestyle changes, you’ll not only save energy and reduce your air conditioning costs, but you’ll also enjoy a more comfortable and sustainable home environment.
Looking for even more ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency and lower your AC bills? Consider using a cooling mattress pad, which can help keep you comfortable at night and reduce the need to run your air conditioning unit while you sleep. Another helpful tip is to use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air; drier air feels cooler, so your AC system won’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Landscaping can also play a role in reducing heat gain. Planting trees or shrubs on the south and west sides of your home provides natural shade, blocking the sun’s rays and helping to keep your home cooler during the hottest parts of the day. These additional tips can help you save energy, reduce your air conditioning costs, and create a more comfortable living environment all summer long.
If you’re looking to lower your AC bill and want professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Number One Plumbing, AC, Solar & Electric of Albuquerque. Our experienced team can help with everything from maintenance and repairs to installing energy-efficient air conditioning systems tailored to your home’s needs. We also offer professional energy audit services to identify air leaks, drafts, and insulation deficiencies, helping you improve your home's overall energy efficiency.
Whether you need advice on optimizing your current setup or are considering an upgrade to reduce your energy costs, Number One is here to provide expert guidance and reliable service. Call us today to schedule an appointment and start saving on your AC bills while keeping your home comfortable all summer long.
Lowering your air conditioning bills is all about combining smart strategies and energy-efficient habits. By working with your electric company, you can take advantage of special programs and energy audits to save money and reduce your air conditioning costs. Adopting energy-efficient lifestyle changes—like using ceiling fans, switching to energy-efficient appliances, and minimizing heat gain—can further help you save energy and keep your home cool.
Implementing AC bill reduction strategies, such as using a programmable thermostat, sealing air leaks, and blocking direct sunlight, will help you prevent cool air loss and reduce your energy costs. Don’t forget to try additional tips like using a cooling mattress pad, running a dehumidifier, and planting trees or shrubs for extra shade. By following these practical steps, you’ll improve your home’s energy efficiency, reduce your air conditioning bills, and save money—all while staying comfortable during the hottest days of the year.
