7 Ways to Lower Your AC Costs This Summer Without Sacrificing Comfort
The Summer Bill Shock: Why Is My Electric Bill So High?
You open your electric bill in the middle of a scorching Dunnellon summer, and the number makes you sweat more than the heat outside. Sound familiar?
For many Florida families, it can feel like an impossible choice—either keep your home comfortable or try to keep your energy costs in check. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to choose.
At Bowers Heat & Air, we’ve spent nearly 15 years helping homeowners like you lower cooling costs without sacrificing comfort. Below are 7 practical tips—some you can do today, and a few that might just require a little help from your favorite small-town AC team.
The #1 Energy Hog in Your Home? Your Air Conditioner
Let’s not sugarcoat it—your AC unit is working hard in this Florida heat. In fact, cooling your home can make up more than half of your summer energy bill.
And it’s not just the temperatures. If your system is older, poorly maintained, or constantly running, you’re likely paying more than you need to. So what can you do about it?
7 Ways to Lower Your AC Costs This Summer
1. Start Simple: Check That Air Filter
What’s the problem?
A clogged filter makes it harder for your system to breathe, which means it has to run longer and harder.
Quick fix:
Check your filter monthly and replace it every 1–3 months. It’s a cheap, easy job with a big payoff.
Why it matters:
You’ll see lower energy bills, breathe cleaner air, and reduce wear and tear on your system.
2. Set Your Thermostat Smartly
Common mistake:
Keeping the thermostat too low might feel good in the moment, but it comes at a steep cost.
Better approach:
Try setting it to 78°F when home, and a few degrees higher when away. A programmable or smart thermostat can automate this for you.
Savings tip:
You can save about 3% on your cooling costs for every degree you raise the temperature.
3. Block Out the Sun (and the Heat)
Hidden issue:
Sun pouring through windows (especially on the south and west side) heats up your home fast.
DIY fix:
Use blackout curtains, blinds, or solar screens during the hottest parts of the day.
Real result:
Less sunlight = less strain on your AC = more money in your pocket.
4. Seal Up Leaky Spots
Problem:
Gaps around doors and windows let your cold air slip right out—wasting energy.
Easy fix:
Install weatherstripping or caulk those leaks. It’s a quick project with a long-term impact.
Win-win:
Your AC won’t have to work overtime just to make up for lost air.
5. Fight Humidity the Smart Way
Why it matters:
Humidity makes warm air feel hotter, tricking you into lowering the thermostat more than needed.
What to do:
Use your bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans when showering or cooking. They help push moisture out of the home.
Comfort tip:
When humidity’s in check, 78°F feels a lot more comfortable—and your AC runs less often.
For a more powerful solution, ask us about our whole-home dehumidifiers.
6. PRO TIP: Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
DIY goes a long way, but nothing beats a professional AC tune-up. Our team at Bowers will inspect, clean, and optimize your system so it’s running as efficiently as possible.
What we do:
We’ll clean coils, check refrigerant levels, inspect components, and catch issues before they become breakdowns.
Why it’s worth it:
A yearly tune-up pays for itself in energy savings, fewer repairs, and peace of mind during peak heat.
Ready for your tune-up? Schedule yours online or give us a call at 352.489.3917.
7. PRO TIP: Know When It’s Time to Replace Your AC
If your system is over 10–12 years old, even perfect maintenance can’t match the efficiency of today’s high-performance SEER2 units.
Modern solutions:
Upgrading to a high-efficiency system can slash cooling costs by 20–40%—sometimes more.
A lasting investment:
New units also offer better comfort, quieter operation, and warranty coverage for peace of mind.
Curious about the costs? Check out our HVAC System Pricing Guide to learn what goes into the price of a new system.
Take Control of Your Comfort and Your Budget
You shouldn’t have to choose between cooling your home and affording your electric bill. By combining a few smart habits with expert HVAC help, you can enjoy a comfortable home all summer without the sticker shock.
Whether it’s a quick AC tune-up, honest repair, or a no-pressure estimate on a new system, Bowers Heating & Air is here to help—with integrity, faith, and a whole lot of sweat.
Ready to Stop Overpaying for Cool Air?
Restore Efficiency
Schedule your AC tune-up today and make sure your system is running at its best—call us at (352) 489-3917 or book online.
Upgrade Smart
Thinking about replacing your AC? Let us give you a free, no-obligation estimate on a high-efficiency system and show you how much you could save. Proudly serving Dunnellon, FL and surrounding areas with faith, integrity, and real small-town service.
“Our company is powered by Faith + Sweat.” – Cara Bowers, Co-Owner
