8 Big Ways to Save on Your Air Conditioning Bill

In our last Getzschman Heating blog post, we shared some simple steps you can take to save money on your cooling costs. This time, our team is providing a few advanced ideas. Some of these strategies involve a small initial investment, but they provide significant energy savings that pay off over time.

1. Evaluate Your Attic Insulation and Ventilation

Make your home as energy efficient as possible by starting with the area that makes the biggest difference. Up to 30% of the heat that enters your house is absorbed through your roof. Is your attic properly insulated and ventilated for 2026 standards? Quality insulation prevents hot air from seeping through your ceiling, while vents in the eaves allow cooler air to reduce the temperature in your attic. A ridge vent or an attic fan can significantly reduce your cooling costs. This upgrade also helps conserve energy in the winter by lowering your heating bills.

2. Insulate and Seal Your Ductwork

Think about insulating the ductwork in your attic, crawl spaces, and garage. These areas often trap warm air, which transfers heat to the air inside your ducts before it ever reaches your rooms. By sealing gaps and adding insulation to these lines, you ensure that the air stays chilled and your system does not have to work overtime to compensate for lost cooling.

3. Upgrade Your Windows and Sun Protection

Consider installing window tinting on the glass that receives the most direct sunlight, particularly on east and west-facing windows. This minimizes heat absorption throughout the day. Installing awnings on these sides of your home is another effective way to slash the impact of the sun. These changes help maintain a consistent temperature in your home without relying solely on your air conditioner.

4. Install a Modern Smart Thermostat

If you do not already have one, install a smart or programmable thermostat. Raising the temperature by just a few degrees when you are away can lead to a significant percentage of savings on your electric bill. Modern 2026 models even allow you to track your energy usage in real time from your phone, helping you make better decisions about your home comfort.

5. Transition to SEER2 Efficiency Standards

If you have an old air conditioner with a low efficiency rating, it is likely worth replacing. The industry now uses SEER2 testing, which more accurately reflects how units perform in Nebraska homes. Upgrading to a modern, high-efficiency system can often pay for itself through reduced energy consumption in just a few years. We offer flexible financing options to help make these essential upgrades more manageable for your household budget.

6. Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up

Have your air conditioning unit tuned up once a year to be certain it is running at peak efficiency. A professional check-up ensures that your system is clean and that mechanical parts are functioning correctly. This prevents small issues from turning into major breakdowns during a July humidity spike in Douglas County.

7. Utilize Ceiling Fans Correctly

Use your ceiling fans and confirm they are blowing air downward. For most fans, the blades should spin counter-clockwise to create a cooling breeze. Running a ceiling fan allows you to set your thermostat about five degrees higher because the moving air helps cool you off through evaporation. This is a simple way to stay comfortable while reducing the load on your central AC unit.

8. Seal the Air Leaks in Your Home Envelope

Add weather stripping around windows and doors to keep your cool air inside. You should also fill any gaps where utilities such as plumbing or dryer vents enter the house. These tiny leaks act like a permanent open window for your air conditioning. Sealing them now also prepares your home for the cold Nebraska winter ahead.

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