Enjoy cool savings with an energy-efficient home
Cooling accounts for about 17% of a home’s annual energy bill. Use these tips to cut costs without sacrificing cool comfort.
| Cooling tips |
Skill level |
Cost |
Savings |
Choose ENERGY STAR® certified air conditioners
ENERGY STAR® certified central or room air conditioners will save energy, especially if replacing older units.
|
Basic to professional |
$200-$1,000+ |
Up to 30% annually |
Install smart and programmable thermostat
Save energy with a smart and programmable thermostat that reduces heat when not needed. Set thermostat at 68 F, then program it to decrease temperature 8 degrees when away from home and overnight.
|
Basic |
$25-$250 |
Up to $180 annually |
Minimize indoor heat generation
Change the times of day you use appliances that heat the air, and turn off lights when not needed. Close drapes to keep sun out and consider thermal curtains to reduce energy losses up to 25%. Wait to do heat-generating activities such as cooking and laundry until evening hours. Consider line drying laundry.
|
Basic |
Free |
Varies |
Install ceiling fans
Fans efficiently cool a home in summer months and circulate warm air in winter. Install an ENERGY STAR® certified ceiling fan yourself or contract a qualified electrician.
|
Advanced |
$100-$200 |
$165 over 10 years |
Upgrade insulation
Add or upgrade insulation to save energy year-round, keeping cooler in summer and warmer in winter. A minimum insulating value of R-38 will reduce energy bills and improve comfort. Start with the attic, typically the most cost-effective place to add insulation. If the home feels drafty in winter or warm in summer, additional insulation in exterior walls, crawl space or basement may help.
|
Advanced to professional |
Varies |
About $200 annually |
Seal leaks
Sealing leaks is a cost-effective way to save money on energy costs and improve household comfort. Weatherstripping creates a tight seal between movable components such as doors and windows. Use a qualified technician to detect leaks or find them yourself from visual inspections inside and outside the home. Weatherstripping is easy to install. Metal weatherstripping is affordable and long lasting. Vinyl resists moisture in high-traffic areas. Felts and foams are best for low-traffic areas. Other sealing approaches include caulk and caulking gun, gaskets for electrical outlets and switches, fireplace draft stoppers and attic door covers.
|
Basic to advanced |
$50-$350 |
Up to 20% |
