Keeping your home cool during a scorching Texas summer doesn’t have to mean sky-high energy bills or an overworked AC unit. By combining smart habits with energy-efficient upgrades, you can stay comfortable while extending the life of your HVAC system.
1. Seal the Leaks to Keep Cool Air In
Small gaps around windows, doors, and ductwork may seem harmless, but they can significantly raise your indoor temperature—and your AC’s workload.
Quick tip:
Run your hand along door edges and window frames. If you feel air movement, apply weatherstripping or caulk to seal the leaks.
Sealing air leaks in your home can significantly reduce energy costs, with potential savings of up to 20% on heating and cooling expenses. This improvement not only lowers utility bills but also enhances indoor comfort and air quality (“Don’t Let Air Leaks Drain Your Wallet: How Air Sealing Can Save You Money? – Revise”; “Air Sealing | Greater Cincinnati | Sustainergy”).
2. Use Ceiling Fans Strategically
Fans don’t cool the air, but they circulate it to help you feel cooler. By using ceiling fans in occupied rooms, you can raise your thermostat setting by 4°F without sacrificing comfort.
Pro tip:
Make sure your ceiling fan is spinning counterclockwise in summer to push air downward.
3. Block Heat with Curtains or Window Film
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, approximately 76% of sunlight that enters through standard double-pane windows becomes heat, significantly impacting indoor temperatures during warmer months (Dimayuga).
Implementing window coverings, such as blinds or shades, can substantially reduce this heat gain, enhancing indoor comfort and lowering cooling costs (Admin and Admin).
Options to consider:
- Blackout curtains
- Reflective or tinted window film
- Solar screens
4. Switch to a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats adjust temperatures automatically based on your schedule and habits. That means your home stays cooler when you’re there, and you save energy when you’re not.
Such as the Google Nest, have been shown to save users an average of 10–12% on heating bills and about 15% on cooling bills annually. These savings are achieved through features like learning user schedules, adjusting temperatures automatically, and optimizing energy use when the home is unoccupied (Bailey).
5. Cook Smart: Avoid Using the Oven
Heat-producing appliances like ovens and stoves can increase the temperature in your home by several degrees, forcing your AC to work overtime.
Summer alternatives:
- Use a microwave or a slow cooker
- Grill outdoors
- Opt for fresh, no-cook meals like salads or cold pasta dishes
6. Schedule Routine AC Maintenance
A neglected AC system works harder than it should. Dirty filters, clogged coils, and low refrigerant levels all contribute to inefficiency and breakdowns.
Checklist for summer prep:
- Replace air filters every 1–3 months
- Schedule a professional HVAC tune-up before peak heat
- Have ducts inspected for leaks or blockages
7. Insulate Your Attic and Walls
Insulation isn’t just for winter—it helps regulate indoor temperatures year-round. In summer, proper insulation reduces heat transfer from your attic into living spaces.
Key areas to insulate:
- Attic floor and access door
- Walls facing direct sun
- Garage (if attached to your home)
This passive solution keeps your home cooler and reduces the burden on your AC system.
Why Avoid Overworking Your AC?
When your AC is constantly running, it:
- Uses more energy
- Increases your monthly utility bills
- Wears down parts faster
- Can lead to costly emergency repairs or early system replacement
The best approach? Pair efficient AC use with smart, energy-conscious habits—you’ll stay cool while saving money.
Trust the Experts at Adon CPS
Don’t overwork your AC this summer — let Adon CPS help you stay cool the smarter way. From energy-efficient AC installations and indoor air quality upgrades to smart home automation, Adon CPS is your go-to HVAC partner for every season.
📞 Contact us today or schedule your seasonal HVAC tune-up with our licensed pros.
Work Cited
“Don’t Let Air Leaks Drain Your Wallet: How Air Sealing Can Save You Money? – Revise.” Revise, 20 Sept. 2024, www.callrevise.com/dont-let-air-leaks-drain-your-wallet.
“Air Sealing | Greater Cincinnati | Sustainergy.” Sustainergy, www.sustainergy.coop/air-sealing.
Dimayuga, Soraya Danica. “Keeping Cool: How Rolling Shutters Combat Extreme Heat.” Rolling Shutter, Security Shutters, Window Coverings, 20 Feb. 2025, rollashield.com/keeping-cool-how-rolling-shutters-combat-extreme-heat.
Admin, and Admin. “Reducing Air Conditioning Costs With the Aid of Window Blinds: An Energy-Efficient Solution | Valley Drapery and Uphostery Blog.” Valley Drapery & Uphostery, 21 July 2023, blog.valley.studio/2023/07/21/reducing-air-conditioning-costs-with-the-aid-of-window-blinds-an-energy-efficient-solution.
Bailey, Johnny. “Smart Thermostats for Energy Savings: 7 Tips to Reduce Cost Now.” Planet Pristine, 16 Jan. 2024, planetpristine.com/sustainable/energy/smart-thermostats-for-energy-savings.
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