In the typical home, air conditioning uses more electricity than anything else. It consists of approximately 16% of total electricity used. In warmer regions AC can be 60-70% of your summer electric bill, according to Austin Energy. This is where the savings are folks, not in worrying that you left your cell phone charger plugged in too long.
The easiest way to save is to run the AC less often, and to dial the temperature up a degree or two when you do run it. My tips below show you how to be comfortable at warmer temperatures. I use these tips myself, and as a result I save hundreds of dollars every summer. I could take a trip to Las Vegas every year from what I save by not using AC. Even if you’re determined to not use your AC any less, we’ll cover ways to keep the heat out of your home, and more efficient air conditioners, which can still save you money.
Central AC is simply an energy hog. A window unit AC uses 500 to 1440 watts, while a 2.5-ton central system uses about 3500 watts. That’s a lot of power. A floor fan uses only 100 watts on the highest speed, and ceiling fans use only 15 to 90 watts depending on speed and size.
Let me put into perspective how wasteful central AC is:
Watt-hours per one hour of continuous use
Central AC system (2.5 tons) 3500
Window unit AC, medium size 900
Refrigerator with door left open 358
Amount wasted by keeping the fridge door open 215
Desktop computer system 160
Refrigerator (normal use) 143
Ceiling fan (42″, on high) 75
Television (19″ CRT) 75
CFL light bulb (60-watt equivalent) 18
Leaving your phone charger plugged in with phone connected after finished charging 0.3 (too small to represent graphically)
And now, on with the tips!
1. Raise the temperature
2. Install ceiling fans if you don’t have them.
3. Make sure your ceiling fan is spinning the right way.
4. Use a Bed Fan
5. Use a “Chillow” pillow
6. Use cold packs
7. Wear a wrung-out shirt
8. Run around naked
9. Rinse off in the shower
10. Use an AC timer or smart thermostat.
11. Clean the filter
12. Replace your air conditioner
13. Don’t oversize when buying a new AC
14. Use the Energy Saver on window units
15. Cool your condenser or window unit
16. Shade your condenser or window unit
17. Don’t block the condenser unit
18. Clean the condenser/evaporator coils at the beginning of each season
19. Alternative #1: Window Units
20. Alternative #2: Mini Split System
21. Alternative #3: Evaporative cooling
22. Alternative #4: Whole-House Fan
23. Alternative #5: Geothermal systems
24. Insulate the attic
25. Install a radiant barrier
26. Test your ducts for leaks
27. Paint the exterior with a light color
28. Install a metal roof
29. Install a white roof
30. Plant shade trees
31. Install an attic fan?
32. Make sure your doors and windows are well sealed.
33. Use drapes or blinds to block sunlight
34. Put solar screens on the windows
35. Install reflective film on windows
36. Use storm windows & doors
37. Reduce heat from lighting
38. Reduce heat from cooking
39. Use software to model your building
