6 Ways to Beat the Heat Without Breaking the Bank

North Carolina summer is already off to a sweltering start with central NC recording the highest 'feels-like' temperatures in the country right now. In this heat, without a smart strategy, electricity bills can climb fast.

Air conditioning is one of the biggest contributors to energy costs, and we’ve all heard advice—sometimes more myth than fact—from parents or grandparents about how to keep bills low. While it’s true that inefficient AC use can strain your budget, it doesn’t have to be that way. You don’t need to suffer through the heat or fear turning on your system. With a few simple changes, you can stay cool and keep your energy bills in check. Here are some smart ways to help your AC work more efficiently this summer.

1. Set Your Thermostat Wisely

A great way to optimize your energy usage is to set your thermostat between 76–78°F when you’re home, and raise it a few degrees when you’re away. Increasing the temperature by just one degree can reduce your cooling costs by up to 3%. Consider switching to a smart thermostat that learns your schedule and adjusts automatically, so you’re not cooling an empty home.

2. Use Fans to Help Your AC

Ceiling and portable fans are excellent companions to your AC. While fans don’t lower the room temperature, they create a wind chill effect that makes you feel cooler, reducing the need to lower the thermostat. Keep in mind—the lower your thermostat is set in hotter weather, the harder your AC works to maintain that temperature, leading to higher energy use and costs.Just remember to turn fans off when you leave the room to save energy.

3. Block Out the Sun

Sunlight streaming through your windows is a major source of unwanted heat. Use blackout curtains, blinds, or reflective window film during the hottest parts of the day—especially on south- and west-facing windows. This simple change helps keep your home naturally cooler and reduces the workload on your AC.

4. Seal and Insulate for Efficiency

To get the most out of your AC, make sure the cool air stays inside. Air can easily escape through cracks around doors, windows, and ducts. Weatherstrip or caulk these areas to keep the cold air in and the hot air out. If you live in an older home, it may also be worth upgrading your insulation for even better efficiency.

5. Time Your Heat-Producing Chores

Appliances like ovens, dryers, and dishwashers give off more heat than you might expect. Using them during the hottest part of the day makes your AC work harder. Instead, cook and do laundry in the early morning or evening, or take the heat outside and fire up the grill.

6. Reduce Humidity Indoors

If you’ve spent any summer in NC, you know how much humidity affects how hot it feels. A dehumidifier can help your AC run more efficiently and make your home more comfortable. Lower humidity also reduces the risk of mold and mildew—especially in basements or poorly ventilated areas. An all-around win!

Don’t Skip Regular Maintenance

All these tips are helpful, but one of the most important things you can do is keep your AC system in top shape. A well-maintained system performs better, lasts longer, and uses less energy. Clean or replace your air filters every 1–3 months, and schedule an annual professional tune-up to catch issues before they become expensive problems.And if your system is over 10–15 years old, it might be time to consider an upgrade—newer models are significantly more energy-efficient and could save you money in the long run.

Need help with maintenance, upgrades, or energy-saving solutions? Our expert team is here to keep your system running smoothly all season long. Call us at (919) 362-0020 or book online today.