As temperatures rise, keeping your home comfortable becomes a top priority—but that doesn’t mean you need to overwork your air conditioner or rack up high energy bills. With a few smart strategies, you can stay cool while using less energy, extending the life of your cooling system and lowering your monthly utility costs.
Here are some energy-efficient tips for our neighbors in Gloucester County, NJ and nearby areas, including Linwood, Logan, and Longport. These tactics will help your home stay cooler without relying solely on your AC.
Set Your Thermostat Wisely
One of the easiest ways to reduce AC usage is by adjusting your thermostat settings. Set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and need cooling, and raise it a few degrees when you’re away. Avoid setting your AC to a colder temperature than necessary—it won’t cool your home faster, but it will use more energy. Better yet, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for precise control and automatic adjustments based on your schedule.
Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Air
Ceiling fans don’t actually lower the temperature in a room, but they do make you feel cooler by circulating the air and promoting evaporation on your skin. When used in conjunction with your AC, they can help you raise your thermostat by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. Just remember to turn fans off when you leave the room—they cool people, not spaces.
Cover Windows to Block Heat
Sunlight streaming through your windows brings in a surprising amount of heat. During the hottest parts of the day, close blinds or curtains—especially on south- and west-facing windows—to prevent solar heat gain. Blackout curtains or reflective shades can significantly reduce indoor temperatures, helping your AC work less and save more.
Seal Drafts and Air Leaks
Hot outdoor air can seep into your home through gaps and cracks around doors, windows, and other openings, causing your AC to work harder to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. Take time to inspect your home for air leaks and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping. Blocking these drafts is a simple, inexpensive step that pays off in both summer and winter.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats offer advanced features like learning your cooling preferences, adjusting settings automatically, and letting you control temperatures remotely from your phone. Some models even use geofencing to determine when you’re home or away, maximizing efficiency. When paired with a properly maintained HVAC system, a smart thermostat can lead to significant long-term savings.
Consider a High-Efficiency Cooling Upgrade
If your air conditioner is 10–15 years old, it may be time to consider an upgrade. New high-efficiency systems use far less energy while providing more consistent and reliable cooling. You’ll not only reduce your energy bills but also enjoy quieter operation, better humidity control, and improved indoor comfort.
Get a Free Estimate on a New Comfort System
Thinking about upgrading your air conditioner or installing a smart thermostat? Contact us today for a free estimate on a new, energy-efficient home comfort system. Our expert team will help you find the best cooling solution for your home—one that maximizes efficiency, comfort, and value for years to come. Let’s make your home a cooler, more energy-smart place to live!
Contact Ambient Comfort for comprehensive air quality support.