07 May Maximize Your AC Efficiency: Top Tips to Stay Cool and Lower Your Energy Bills

As the summer heat rolls in, your air conditioning system is working overtime to keep your home comfortable. But if your cooling system isn’t running efficiently, it could be driving up your energy bills—and leaving parts of your home feeling less than refreshing.

At D.E. Duffey & Sons, we specialize in high-efficiency air conditioning installation and service. Whether your system is brand new or more than a decade old, these practical tips will help you get the most out of your cooling system and keep your home consistently comfortable.

1. Set Your Thermostat for Efficiency

Optimizing your thermostat settings is one of the simplest ways to improve AC performance. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and turning it up a few degrees when you’re away. If you don’t already have a programmable or smart thermostat, installing one can help automate energy-saving adjustments throughout the day.

2. Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Air

Ceiling fans are a cost-effective way to enhance airflow and help your AC distribute cool air more evenly. Set your fan to spin counterclockwise in summer to create a wind-chill effect that makes rooms feel cooler—allowing you to raise your thermostat without sacrificing comfort.

3. Block Direct Sunlight

Sunlight streaming through your windows can significantly increase indoor temperatures, forcing your AC to work harder. Close curtains, blinds, or install heat-blocking window film on south- and west-facing windows to reduce solar heat gain and maintain a cooler indoor environment.

4. Replace Dirty Air Filters

A clogged or dirty air filter can restrict airflow and reduce your AC’s efficiency. We recommend checking your air filter once a month during peak cooling season and replacing it every 1–3 months, depending on the type of filter and household conditions (pets, allergies, etc.).

5. Seal and Insulate Leaky Areas

Cool air can easily escape through cracks in windows, doors, and poorly insulated ductwork. Sealing leaks with weatherstripping or caulk and improving attic or wall insulation will help your AC cool more effectively—and reduce energy waste.

6. Schedule Regular AC Maintenance

Even the most efficient air conditioners lose performance over time without routine maintenance. An annual AC tune-up with a certified technician includes checking refrigerant levels, inspecting coils, tightening electrical connections, and more to ensure your system is running at peak performance.

Trust D.E. Duffey for Expert Air Conditioning Service

For over 125 years, D.E. Duffey & Sons has helped homeowners in the Greater Philadelphia region keep their homes comfortable and energy-efficient. Whether you’re looking to improve your current system’s performance or upgrade to a new high-efficiency unit, our team is here to help.

Call us today at 610-940-1400 or schedule your AC service online to stay cool and save more all summer long.