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July 06, 2026

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Every summer I seem to play the same game with my thermostat. I don't want to waste money cooling an empty house, but I also don't want to come home to a place that feels like an oven. Sound familiar?

The good news is that you don't have to choose between comfort and saving money. Experts say there's a simple " sweet spot" that helps reduce your electric bill while keeping your home comfortable and your air conditioner running efficiently.

Be Well,
Anisa

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The AC Strategy That Saves the Most Money

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Photo: A simple thermostat adjustment while you're away can help lower your cooling costs without sacrificing comfort.

Many people think the best way to save is to turn the air conditioner completely off when they leave for work. While that can work in some situations, it's not always the smartest choice.

Instead, raise your thermostat about 7 to 10 degrees while you're away for the day. The U.S. Department of Energy says this simple adjustment can save up to 10% a year on heating and cooling costs.

If you live in a humid climate, this approach has another benefit. Letting your home get too warm can allow moisture to build up, making your AC work harder later and increasing the chance of mold.
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A Few More Ways to Stay Cool for Less

Your thermostat isn't the only money saver.

Keep blinds and curtains closed during the hottest part of the day to block the sun's heat. Seal small drafts around windows with inexpensive foam insulation to keep cool air inside where it belongs.

If you have an older manual thermostat, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat. It automatically adjusts temperatures while you're away and can help reduce cooling costs without you having to think about it.

In Closing

Saving money on air conditioning doesn't have to mean sweating through the summer. A few smart adjustments, especially raising the thermostat while you're away, can keep your home comfortable and your electric bill a little easier to live with. Sometimes the biggest savings come from the smallest changes.


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