Use a Programmable Thermostat to Save on Central Air Conditioning

The average U.S. household spends $375 on air conditioning. Here's one smart way to slash your bill.

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Photo: Istock

By Dan Shapley

Winter is typically the time most homeowners think about energy bills, as cold snaps and high heating oil and natural gas prices send monthly bills soaring. But, increasingly, summer cuts deeply into our wallets, too, since nearly 85% of U.S. homes are equipped with air conditioning systems that cost, on average, about $375 in electricity annually — more than 15% of the average home's annual energy bill!

These air conditioners not only cost us individually, but come at a price to the larger community and the environment, too. About half the electricity generated in the U.S. comes from burning coal, and air conditioning on hot summer days often stresses the power grid to its limits; blackouts aren't unheard of, and smokestack pollution leads to poor air quality — smog, acid rain, mercury deposition and greenhouse gas emissions.

As in winter, you can save significantly on energy bills in summer by using a programmable thermostat on your central air conditioning system that allows you to moderate the temperature when you're home (about 78-degrees is a good target temperature) but not when you're away. Using a programmable thermostat wisely year-round can save up to $150, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. If you're in the market for a thermostat, look for the Energy Star label to choose the most energy-efficient models.

And, remember, you don't even have to use the air conditioner on many summer days. Try these 8 Smart Ways to Keep Cool Without Air Conditioning. You'll also find tips for saving money on your A/C bill if you use window units, rather than central air.

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