how to make ac more efficient This Summer

When temperatures rise and your AC becomes your home’s best friend, the last thing you want is a system that guzzles energy while barely keeping you cool. Luckily, there are smart, simple ways to know how to make AC more efficient so you stay comfortable without driving up your power bill. 

Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or just looking to improve your cooling game, this guide lays out 9 practical tips in plain, real-world language. Let’s help your AC work smarter—not harder. 

1. Change or Clean Your Air Filter Regularly 

This might sound basic, but a dirty air filter is one of the top reasons for poor AC performance. 

• Why it matters: A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work overtime. 

• Homeowner tip: Check your filter once a month during peak seasons. Replace it every 1–3 months depending on your system and household (especially if you have pets). 

 

2. Seal Drafts and Insulate Properly 

If cool air is escaping through unsealed windows or attic gaps, your AC has to keep replacing it—nonstop. 

• Why it matters: Poor insulation and air leaks make your system less efficient and shorten its lifespan. 

• Homeowner tip: Use weather stripping around doors and windows. Consider adding insulation to attics or crawl spaces if your home feels unevenly cooled. 

 

3. Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat 

Setting your thermostat strategically is one of the easiest ways to cut cooling costs. 

• Why it matters: Smart thermostats adjust cooling based on your schedule, so you’re not wasting energy when you’re not home. 

• Homeowner tip: Set it a few degrees higher when you’re away. Aim for 78°F when at home and 85°F when away for optimal energy savings. 

 

4. Keep the Area Around the Outdoor Unit Clear 

Your outdoor condenser unit needs breathing room to work efficiently. 

• Why it matters: Dirt, leaves, and overgrown plants around the unit can block airflow and reduce cooling power.

• Homeowner tip: Keep at least two feet of clearance around the unit. Hose it down gently every few weeks during heavy use months. 

 

5. Close Blinds and Curtains During the Hottest Parts of the Day 

Natural sunlight is great—until it turns your home into a greenhouse. 

• Why it matters: Blocking direct sunlight helps reduce the indoor temperature, so your AC doesn’t have to work as hard. 

• Homeowner tip: Use blackout curtains or reflective blinds on sun-facing windows, especially between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. 

Mastering how to make ac more efficient starts with foundational steps like filter care and smart thermostat use. But for Fresno, Phoenix, and Canton homeowners battling extreme heat, the next four strategies—from leveraging ceiling fans to sizing your unit correctly—unlock peak efficiency. These advanced habits ensure your system stays cool, costs less, and lasts longer, even during the summer’s worst. Let’s finish strong with the final upgrades!

 

6. Use Ceiling Fans to Help Circulate Cool Air 

Fans don’t cool the air, but they do help circulate it—and that makes a big difference. 

• Why it matters: Moving air feels cooler on your skin, which means you can raise the thermostat a few degrees without losing comfort. 

• Homeowner tip: Set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise in the summer. Turn them off when you leave the room to save electricity. 

 

7. Schedule Regular Maintenance 

Even if your AC seems fine, routine check-ups can catch small problems before they become big ones to make your AC more efficient. 

• Why it matters: Professional tune-ups keep your system clean, efficient, and reliable—especially before peak season.

• Homeowner tip: Have your AC inspected once a year by a licensed HVAC technician. Spring is the ideal time to schedule service. 

Read more: How Long Does HVAC Maintenance Take?

 

8. Avoid Heat-Producing Activities During the Day 

Running the oven, dishwasher, or dryer on hot afternoons adds unnecessary heat to your home. 

• Why it matters: The more heat you add, the harder your AC has to work to remove it. 
• Homeowner tip: Try cooking in the evening or use a microwave or grill outside. Run appliances like washers or dryers early in the morning or late at night. 

 

9. Don’t Oversize or Undersize Your Unit 

Size matters—a lot. A unit that’s too small won’t keep you cool. One that’s too big will cycle on and off constantly, wasting energy and money. 

• Why it matters: Proper sizing ensures consistent cooling, lower energy use, and longer system life. 

• Homeowner tip: If your AC struggles to keep up or cools too quickly and shuts off, have a professional check the sizing. This is especially important if you’ve added rooms or remodeled. 

Read more: 7 Telltale signs your air conditioning needs repair​

 

Final Thoughts: Small Tweaks, Big Impact 

How to make your AC more efficient starts with simple habits: change filters, use smart thermostats, and keep outdoor units clear. These steps cut bills, prevent repairs, and keep Fresno, Phoenix, and Canton homes cool. Optimize your system today—Energy Smart Air is here to help!

 

FAQ: How to make AC more efficient

 Is it more economical to leave air conditioning on all day? 

It depends. For most homes, turning the thermostat up (not off) when you leave and using a programmable thermostat gives you the best balance between comfort and efficiency. 

How can I make my portable AC more efficient?

Keep filters clean, seal venting gaps, use energy-saving modes, and pair with fans. Close blinds in hot areas like Phoenix or Fresno to reduce workload.

Are ductless AC units more efficient?

Yes—ductless systems use inverter tech and zoning to avoid duct energy loss. High SEER ratings (30+) save energy in homes from Canton to Phoenix.

 

Ready to Boost Your AC’s Efficiency? 

At Energy Smart Air, we help homeowners get the most out of their HVAC systems. Whether you need a tune-up, smart thermostat installation, or full-system check, we’ve got you covered. 

📞 Call us today at (559) 825-7135 or book online at energysmartair.com. 

Stay cool and save smart this summer!