When summer temperatures climb in Northwest Chicagoland, your air conditioner becomes the most important piece of equipment in your home. However, running your AC nonstop can lead to high energy bills and place unnecessary strain on your system. Whether you’re looking to cut costs, extend your system’s lifespan, or stay cool without relying solely on air conditioning, the tips below will help.
Smart AC Tips for Summer Comfort
The way you use your air conditioner has a big impact on its performance and your home’s comfort. Small, consistent adjustments can help your system cool more effectively while using less energy. The following strategies are easy to implement and can make a noticeable difference:
- Change your air filter regularly. A clogged filter makes your AC work harder and reduces airflow. Check it monthly and replace as needed.
- Use ceiling fans to circulate air. Fans help distribute cool air more evenly and allow you to raise your thermostat setting without sacrificing comfort.
- Close blinds and curtains during the day. Blocking direct sunlight can help your home stay cooler naturally.
- Avoid using heat-producing appliances during peak hours. Dishwashers, ovens, and dryers generate extra heat. Try using them in the early morning or evening.
When combined, these tips reduce the workload on your AC and help maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
What’s the Best Temperature for AC in Summer?
One of the most common questions we hear is: “What temperature should I set my AC to in summer?”
For most homes, the ideal summer AC setting is between 75°F and 78°F when people are home. This range balances comfort with energy efficiency. When you’re away or sleeping, consider raising the temperature by a few degrees to reduce energy use.
If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, you can set it to automatically adjust the temperature in your home according to your schedule.
How to Save Money on AC This Summer
Cooling your home doesn’t necessarily mean you need to invest in powerful HVAC equipment. In fact, many cost-saving strategies are simple adjustments or small upgrades that pay off over time. If you’re looking to reduce your cooling bills without sacrificing comfort, consider the following tips:
- Schedule seasonal maintenance. A well-tuned AC system runs more efficiently and is less likely to break down. Allied offers professional tune-ups to keep your system in peak condition.
- Seal air leaks around doors and windows. Sealing air leaks in your home will prevent warm air from entering and cool air from leaving.
- Upgrade to a high-efficiency system. If your unit is over 10–15 years old, a modern Carrier system can provide better performance with lower operating costs.
- Use zoning or smart thermostats. Zoned cooling and smart thermostats allow you to cool only the rooms you use most, saving energy without sacrificing comfort.
By maintaining your system and making a few smart upgrades, you can stay cool all summer long without seeing a spike in your utility bills.
How to Keep Your Home Cool in Summer Without AC
Whether you don’t have central AC or just want to rely on it less, there are plenty of ways to beat the heat naturally. These techniques are especially useful at night, during power outages, or in older homes without ductwork.
- Create cross-ventilation. Open windows on opposite sides of the house in the early morning or late evening to bring in cooler air.
- Add insulation and weather stripping. These small upgrades help maintain a more stable indoor temperature year-round.
- Use blackout curtains or reflective window film. These additions can significantly reduce indoor heat gain.
- Cool your body, not just your space. Stay hydrated, wear breathable clothing, and consider cooling pillows or mattress toppers for more comfortable sleep.
By combining passive cooling strategies with a few lifestyle adjustments, you can make your home feel more comfortable without depending entirely on your AC system.
Call Allied for Expert AC Service in Northwest Chicagoland
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to summer cooling, but with a few smart strategies, you can stay comfortable and keep your energy bills in check. Whether you’re optimizing your AC system, exploring energy-efficient upgrades, or just need honest advice, Allied Air Conditioning & Heating Corp. is here to help.
Need a summer AC tune-up or system upgrade? Contact us today to schedule service or request a quote.
