Maximize Your AC Efficiency This Summer: Tips for Colorado Homeowners

As summer rolls into Colorado, homeowners know that the scorching heat will soon be here.

The last thing anyone wants is an AC that struggles to keep the house cool while the energy bills skyrocket. Luckily, there are several ways to maximize your AC’s efficiency without sacrificing comfort.

At First String Heating and Air, we’re all about helping you stay cool and keep your costs down.

Here are some simple but effective tips to ensure your air conditioner runs as efficiently as possible all summer long.

1. Set Your Thermostat

One of the most effective ways to keep your home cool and your bills low is by setting your thermostat correctly. It’s tempting to set the temperature super low to feel cool faster, but this only forces your system to work harder than it needs to.

Ideal settings for summer:

1. 78°F when you’re home
2. 82°F when you’re away
3. 85°F at night

Every degree you raise your thermostat can save you up to 5% on your cooling costs!

2. Improve Airflow with Fans

Ceiling fans are your best friend during the summer. They help distribute cool air more evenly throughout your home, which means your AC doesn’t have to work as hard.

Fan tip:

Make sure your fans are rotating counterclockwise to push cool air downward. Also, use floor fans or box fans in rooms that need an extra boost.

3. Regularly Change Your Air Filter

One of the simplest and most important things you can do for your AC is to change the air filter regularly. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder and reducing its efficiency. In fact, a dirty filter can increase your energy consumption by up to 15%.

Filter tip:

During the summer, change your filter at least once a month to maintain peak airflow and efficiency.

4. Seal Gaps and Insulate Your Home

Your cooling system isn’t the only thing that affects your home’s temperature. Leaky windows, doors, and ductwork can allow cool air to escape, making your AC work harder to maintain the set temperature.

Sealing tip:

1. Check and replace weather stripping around windows and doors.
2. Seal ductwork gaps with tape or a professional duct sealing service.
3. Add insulation to your attic or walls to prevent heat from entering your home.

5. Block Direct Sunlight

Colorado summers mean plenty of sunshine and lots of heat coming in through your windows. If your AC is cooling your home while the sun’s pouring in through open blinds, you’re losing energy.

Sun-blocking tip:

Close blinds or use light-blocking curtains during the hottest parts of the day. You can also consider adding outdoor shading like awnings or shade trees.

6. Schedule Annual AC Maintenance

Even if your system is running well, it’s still important to get an annual tune-up. Regular maintenance ensures that everything from the coils and refrigerant levels to the airflow and electrical components is working properly and efficiently.

Benefit of maintenance:

A well-maintained system uses less energy, reduces wear and tear, and extends the life of your unit. And when you schedule maintenance before the peak summer heat arrives, you’ll avoid breakdowns when you need it most.

7. Upgrade Your System

If your air conditioner is over 10–15 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement. Newer models are significantly more energy efficient and can cool your home faster without consuming as much electricity.

Energy savings tip:

Consider replacing your old system with an ENERGY STAR-rated model to lower your energy bills by up to 20% annually.

Stay Cool and Save Money All Summer

At First String Heating and Air, we believe that comfort and efficiency go hand in hand. With a few simple adjustments and regular maintenance, you can keep your home cool and your energy bills low all summer long.

We’re here to help with expert advice, professional service, and the tools you need to maximize your AC’s efficiency.

Schedule Your AC Tune-Up Today

If you want to ensure your system is working at its peak efficiency this summer, don’t wait!

Call First String Heating and Air today to schedule your annual AC maintenance or a consultation for a new, energy-efficient system.