As summer temperatures rise, so do utility bills, leaving homeowners desperate to find ways to conserve energy and keep those costs in check without sacrificing comfort. Yet many of us may not realize that a few seemingly innocent and insignificant actions on our part can be contributing to higher cooling costs every summer.

Here are 7 common air conditioning mistakes that might be causing your utility bills to skyrocket during the hot summer months.

1. Neglecting Regular Maintenance

One of the most significant mistakes is neglecting regular AC maintenance. Just like any other home appliance, your AC needs regular check-ups to function efficiently. Dirty filters, clogged ducts, and low refrigerant levels can cause your system to work harder, consuming more energy. Schedule annual maintenance with a professional to ensure your system is in top condition.

2. Setting the Thermostat Too Low

It’s tempting to set the thermostat to a very low temperature on a hot day, but this practice doesn’t cool your home faster. Instead, it forces your AC to run longer, using more energy. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat between 75° and 78°F  when you’re home and higher when you’re away. Using a programmable thermostat can help manage these settings automatically.

3. Ignoring Air Leaks

Air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork can cause cool air to escape, making your AC work overtime to maintain the desired temperature. Sealing these leaks with weather-stripping or caulking can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency. Additionally, ensure that your ductwork is properly insulated to prevent energy loss.

4. Blocking Vents and Airflow

Furniture, drapes, or other objects blocking vents and registers can restrict airflow, causing your AC to work harder to cool your home. Ensure that all vents are open and unobstructed to allow for even distribution of cool air.

5. Not Using Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans can be an excellent supplement to your AC. They help circulate cool air more efficiently, allowing you to set the thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort. Remember to set your ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise during the summer to create a cooling breeze.

6. Overlooking the Impact of Heat Sources

Heat-generating appliances like ovens, stoves, and even some electronics can raise your home’s temperature, making your AC work harder. Try to use these appliances during cooler parts of the day, or opt for alternatives like grilling outside. Additionally, using energy-efficient lighting can reduce heat buildup.

7. Not Utilizing Natural Ventilation

On cooler days or during the evening, turn off your AC and open windows to allow natural ventilation. This can give your AC a break and reduce energy consumption. However, make sure to close windows and blinds during the day to keep the heat out.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can enhance the efficiency of your air conditioning system, keep your home comfortably cool, and reduce your summer utility costs. And contact CD Cooling & Heating for regular system maintenance, repairs, or new system installation.