How to cut air-conditioning bills in the summer heat

As summer heat intensifies, air-conditioning experts are offering simple ways to reduce electricity use without sacrificing comfort. The basic idea is to keep the gap between outdoor and indoor temperatures as small as possible, which eases the load on the system and saves energy.

The U.S. Department of Energy points to 25.5 degrees Celsius as an ideal setting while people are home, but the experts stress there is no single answer for everyone. For maximum savings, they recommend setting the AC to about 25.5 degrees when at home, and raising it by 7 to 10 degrees when no one is there.

At night, they suggest around 28 degrees Celsius, while noting that sleep quality matters more than the electricity bill. If a cooler room is needed to sleep well, they say it is reasonable to lower the setting.

Jimmy Campbell, an air-conditioning specialist, also recommends using ceiling or floor fans to make a room feel cooler, blocking direct sunlight with blackout curtains, and replacing filters every 30 to 90 days so the system runs efficiently. He also advises avoiding ovens and stovetops during peak heat, and in small rooms placing a fan in front of a bucket of ice for an immediate cool airflow. The article says the best approach is a balance between scientific energy-saving guidance and personal comfort, taking into account age, health and individual preferences.