To keep cool, we retreat indoors where we have climate-controlled cooling systems. With the price of energy constantly on the rise, we are all looking for ways to save on our summer cooling bills.

1. Service Your HVAC Unit

It may seem obvious to some, but the easiest way to save on air conditioning costs this summer is to make sure your cooling system has been serviced and maintained. It is surprising how many people fail to do routine maintenance on their air conditioning systems. Often times, people get too busy with other things and don’t get around to calling the service guy until AFTER a breakdown. And even if there is no breakdown, the unit runs less efficiently and the summer cooling costs soar. Don’t let that be you. If you haven’t cleaned and serviced your AC yet this summer, get on that right away!

2. Keep the Thermostat Set Higher

I know it is more uncomfortable and this may not be a practical option for some, but another good way to save air conditioning costs this summer is to keep your thermostat set higher, like around 80 degrees, then your HVAC unit wont have to run as often and your bills will be lowered. Also, make sure to turn it even higher when nobody is home.

3. Install a Programmable Thermostat

For greater control over the temperature inside your house, nothing beats a programmable thermostat. With programmable thermostats, you can save on cooling bills WITHOUT sacrificing your indoor comfort. These thermostats have multiple daily settings and you can program them to go higher when you are sleeping or at work, and lower when you’re home. You save money and stay cool at the same time.

4. Install an Attic Fan

Another way to save air conditioning costs this summer is to give your HVAC unit some help. An attic fan is a perfect companion for your air conditioner, because it keeps the attic and upstairs rooms cooler so your AC doesn’t have to work as hard to cool down the house. This lowers your energy bills and makes your upstairs rooms more comfortable at the same time.

5. Purchase a High-Efficiency Air Conditioning System

Though your HVAC unit may still be spitting out cool air, it may not be doing it as efficiently as it used to. If the unit is over 10 years old, it might be time to look at getting a new one. With all the breakthroughs in energy efficient and “green” technology available, this is one of the best ways you can save air conditioning costs this summer. For the very best in “green” energy combined with extremely low cooling costs, consider a geothermal cooling system.