Save Money on Air Conditioning

Many people forget that minding the thermostat in summer can be nearly as important as doing so in winter.

With high oil prices, adjusting your thermostat can help you save on high home heating oil prices.

Photo: Duc Do / istock

By Brian Clark Howard

With natural gas and heating oil prices being what they were the past few winters, it has gradually dawned on many homeowners and renters alike to mind their thermostats carefully through the cold months. Now, that same kind of vigilance is more important than ever when it comes to moderating your warm weather climate control as well.

That's because cooling accounts for nearly half the energy used by the average home during the summer, according to the EPA. The high power loads of air conditioners put considerable pressure on already stressed power grids, and have been blamed for numerous blackouts and rolling brownouts. The generation of the required electricity is a major contributor of greenhouse gases.

As in winter, it really pays to install a programmable thermostat (approximately $150 a year, according to the EPA). Besides improving efficiency, a programmable model provides hassle-free convenience and accuracy, and doesn't contain mercury like the old manual thermostats. Learn about Energy Star models here.

Even though the thought of an arctic blast might sound appealing in the dog days of summer, it isn't wise to set your thermostat too low, for your pocketbook or the environment. Aim for 78 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Also make sure your air conditioning system, including ductwork, is properly maintained and cleaned.

COMMENTS ()