Living in Lake Havasu City, AZ means plenty of sunshine and scorching temperatures that can push your cooling system to work harder this summer. With energy costs climbing, it’s no surprise you want to look for ways to cut utility bills without sacrificing comfort. You don’t have to choose between comfort and savings.
In this guide, our heating and cooling services team will discuss energy-saving tips to maximize the performance of your system without going over budget.
Understand Arizona’s Unique Climate Challenges
Before diving into specific tips, it’s helpful to understand how Lake Havasu City’s climate affects your energy usage. We enjoy mild winters, but our summers are long and brutally hot, with highs often reaching 110°F or higher. That means your air conditioner works harder and runs longer than it would in cooler climates.
At the same time, desert nights can get surprisingly cool, especially in winter. Learning to work with the natural environment instead of against it can save you money and keep your HVAC system in better shape for the long run.
Keep Up with Routine HVAC Maintenance
Nothing boosts efficiency like regular HVAC maintenance. Schedule professional tune-ups at least once a year — twice if you want optimal performance during peak summer heat. During a tune-up, we will check refrigerant levels, inspect electrical connections, test the thermostat, and clean critical components in your HVAC system. When your system runs smoothly, it uses less energy to maintain your desired temperature.
Frequently Replace Air Filters
When your air filters are dirty, they restrict the airflow in your home. This makes your system work harder than necessary. In our dusty desert environment, changing your filter is even more critical. Check your filters monthly, especially during the hottest months when your cooling system runs all the time. Plan to change them at least every one to two months. If you have furry pets or allergies, do it more frequently. High-quality filters also improve indoor air quality, allowing your family to breathe more easily.
Seal Leaks Around Windows and Doors
Tiny gaps around your windows and doors let in hot air during the summer and cool air during the winter. This forces your HVAC system to work harder to maintain your desired indoor temperature. Check the windows and doors in your home for drafts. Use weather stripping to seal any leaks that you find. You’ll notice more stable indoor temperatures and lower utility bills when the air stays where you want it.
Use Ceiling Fans to Help Keep You Cool
If you have not considered using ceiling fans to help keep you cool, you are underestimating their power. In the summer, run your fans counterclockwise to create a wind-chill effect. This refreshing breeze lets you raise your thermostat a few degrees while still staying comfortable. In the winter, switch the fan direction to clockwise, and run it at a low speed. This gentle updraft pushes warm air that collects near the ceiling back down into your living space.
Upgrade to a Programmable or a Smart Thermostat
One of the most effective ways to reduce your energy bill in Lake Havasu City is to install a programmable or smart thermostat. These devices let you adjust your home’s temperature when you’re away automatically, so you’re not cooling or heating an empty house. You can also schedule the temperature to be lower in the bedrooms while you are sleeping.
Smart thermostats go further by learning your habits and suggesting ways to save energy based on your daily schedule. It allows you to zone your living space, making it easy to keep a consistent temperature in rooms that you use frequently while minimizing energy use in unused areas. Some even let you control your settings from your phone, so you can make changes to your settings while you’re away from home.
Insulate and Shade Your Home
When you consider insulating your home, you may think that areas with colder climates require it more. However, good insulation is just as important in hot climates. Proper insulation helps keep cool air inside during the hot months and warm air inside during the cooler months.
Heavy drapes or blackout curtains can also be a significant help in cooling your home. They help block heat from the sun, especially on south- and west-facing windows. Exterior shading, like awnings or shade screens, can also keep your house naturally cooler.
Maintain Your Ductwork
Leaky ducts can waste a surprising amount of energy. If your ducts run through your attic, crawl space, or garage, leaks or poor insulation mean that cool air escapes your home before it ever reaches your living spaces. Inspect your ductwork every few years to ensure it is in good condition. Sealing leaks improves the efficiency of your system, providing you with lower monthly energy bills and more consistent temperatures.
Utilize Natural Ventilation Options
Make the most of the desert breeze during the early morning or late evening hours. Open windows bring in fresh air and give your air conditioner a short break. However, don’t keep the windows open once temperatures rise because you won’t want hot air creeping in.
Use Energy Efficent Lighting and Appliances
Incandescent bulbs and older appliances waste energy and generate additional heat that your AC must counteract. Switch to LED bulbs in your home to use less electricity and generate less heat. When it’s time to replace appliances like your refrigerator, dishwasher, or water heater, look for ENERGY STAR-certified models that have a more efficient design. They use less energy and can help you save money throughout the year.
Don’t Forget to Schedule Seasonal Maintenance
Each season brings new demands for your HVAC system. Before summer arrives, schedule a maintenance session for your cooling system. Before winter, have your heating system checked, even if you rarely use it. Minor issues are less costly to fix when caught early. A little preventive care goes a long way toward avoiding emergency breakdowns.
Adopting Good Habits to Use Daily
Along with upgrades and seasonal prep, a few simple daily habits can add up to real savings. Close blinds during peak sun hours to block out heat. Blocking direct sunlight helps keep indoor temperatures naturally cooler.
Avoid using appliances that produce a lot of heat during the hottest parts of the day. Choose meals that don’t require long oven use. Try grilling outside or using small appliances, like air fryers, slow cookers, or microwaves, to reduce the heat in your kitchen.
Set your thermostat to the highest temperature that keeps you comfortable. Each degree you raise your thermostat setting can save you around 3% on cooling costs. Try keeping the thermostat around 78°F to strike the right balance between comfort and savings.
Take Control of Your Energy Bills
Small changes and routine care can significantly impact your year-round comfort and energy costs. When you stay on top of maintenance, add a smart thermostat, or fix leaks, you’ll enjoy greater comfort and energy savings every month. We’ve been serving Lake Havasu City since 1990, so we know your comfort needs. We will also make sure your system runs at its best and your energy bills stay under control.
If you’re ready to boost your home’s efficiency, reach out to Air Control Home Services today!
