In the Arizona desert, air conditioning is a non-negotiable part of life, but it comes at a price. Cooling can account for over 40 percent of the energy consumption in the average Arizona home. Fortunately, you don't have to choose between comfort and a high utility bill. By making a few simple adjustments and considering some smart upgrades, you can take control of your energy use and significantly lower your summer cooling costs.  

Low-Cost, High-Impact Tips

Making a few changes to your daily habits can lead to noticeable savings without sacrificing comfort.

• Adjust Your Thermostat Strategically: The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F in the summer when you are home. When you are away for the day, raising the temperature by 5°F can save up to 20% on your cooling costs. Every degree you raise your thermostat above 80°F can save you approximately 2% to 3% on your power bill.  

• Use Ceiling Fans Wisely: A ceiling fan can make a room feel up to 4°F cooler. This allows you to set your thermostat to a higher temperature without feeling less comfortable. A key tip to remember is that fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when you leave.  

• Minimize Indoor Heat Sources: Appliances like your oven, dishwasher, and clothes dryer generate a lot of heat, which forces your AC to work harder. Avoid using these appliances during the hottest parts of the day. Instead, try grilling outdoors or using a microwave or slow cooker.  

• Seal and Cover Your Home: Unsealed windows and doors can allow cooled air to escape, forcing your AC to run longer to maintain a comfortable temperature. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal air leaks. During the day, close your blinds and curtains to prevent radiant heat from the sun from entering your home.  

Investment-Based Upgrades

For long-term savings and increased comfort, consider these strategic upgrades for your home.

• Install a Smart Thermostat: A smart thermostat can be programmed to automatically adjust the temperature when you're not home, ensuring you save energy without having to think about it. Many smart thermostats can also pre-cool your home during lower-cost, off-peak hours, a significant benefit for customers with time-of-use plans from utility companies like APS or SRP.  

• Switch to LED Light Bulbs: Did you know that traditional incandescent bulbs generate a lot of heat? Switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs can save you up to 90% on lighting costs and also help keep your home cooler, reducing your AC's workload.  

• Consider a Higher-Efficiency AC Unit: If your current system is old, consider upgrading to a new, energy-efficient model. Newer units with higher SEER2 ratings are designed to be more efficient, reducing both your energy consumption and your monthly bills.  

By combining these simple habit changes with smart upgrades, you can make a powerful impact on your energy consumption, allowing you to stay cool and comfortable all summer long without the stress of a skyrocketing energy bill.