Summer in Colorado Springs means long sunny days, fresh mountain air — and, for many homeowners, rising energy costs. The good news? You can stay cool and comfortable without overspending. With a few smart strategies and the right approach to your air conditioning and home energy use, you can dramatically lower your monthly costs and make your cooling system work more efficiently. Here’s how to lower utility bills this summer.
1. Take Advantage of Colorado’s Natural Cooling
One of the best perks of living in Colorado Springs is our dry mountain air and cool summer evenings. You can use that to your advantage!
- Open your windows at night or early morning when the outside air is cooler, and close them (along with blinds or curtains) once the sun rises. This traps the cool air inside and prevents the midday heat from seeping in.
- Block solar heat gain during the day by keeping blinds closed on west- and south-facing windows. Passive cooling techniques like shading and ventilation can reduce indoor heat before your air conditioner ever turns on.
This simple habit can make your home noticeably cooler — and reduce how often your AC system needs to run.
2. Set Your Thermostat Strategically
Your thermostat is your biggest money-saving tool. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, setting your thermostat just a few degrees higher in summer can lead to meaningful energy savings.
- Keep your thermostat around 78°F when you’re home.
- When you leave for several hours or overnight, increase it by 2–4 degrees to ease the workload on your air conditioning system.
- For maximum control, install a smart thermostat. These devices “learn” your schedule and automatically adjust temperatures for comfort and efficiency.
Smart temperature management is how to lower utility bills without sacrificing comfort.
3. Keep Your Cooling System Maintained
Even the most advanced air conditioner or heat pump will struggle if it’s not properly maintained. Regular service keeps your HVAC system efficient and prevents costly breakdowns.
- Replace your HVAC air filter every 1–3 months. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder.
- Clear debris around your outdoor condenser unit. Airflow is essential for proper cooling.
- Stay on top of annual air conditioning maintenance. Our technicians will inspect refrigerant levels, AC coils, ductwork, and electrical components to ensure everything’s operating smoothly.
A well-maintained air conditioning system uses less electricity and keeps your home’s temperature consistent, which directly translates to lower monthly costs.
4. Seal and Insulate for Maximum Efficiency
Even the most powerful air conditioner can’t keep up with a leaky home.
- Seal gaps and cracks around doors, windows, and attic access points to prevent cool air from escaping.
- Add insulation or upgrade older materials in walls or attics.
- Consider improving your “building envelope” — better windows, weather-stripping, and thermal insulation can make a dramatic difference.
A properly sealed home keeps cool air where it belongs and helps your HVAC system maintain a steady temperature with less effort.
5. Shift Energy Use to Off-Peak Hours
Colorado Springs Utilities offers “Energy Wise” time-of-use rates, which means you can pay less for electricity simply by adjusting when you use it.
- Run your dishwasher, laundry, and other heat-producing appliances early in the morning or late at night, when demand (and rates) are lower.
- Avoid using ovens, dryers, and other heavy appliances between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. on weekdays — the most expensive “on-peak” hours.
Shifting your usage not only saves you money but also helps reduce strain on the power grid during peak demand times.
6. Use Fans and Natural Ventilation
Fans don’t cool the air, but they make you feel cooler — allowing you to raise your thermostat a few degrees without losing comfort.
- Run ceiling fans counterclockwise in summer to push cool air downward.
- Use portable fans or attic ventilation fans to help move hot air out of your home.
- Turn fans off when you leave the room; they’re only effective when people are present.
Combining fans, ventilation, and smart thermostat use can help you achieve powerful results with minimal energy use.
7. Upgrade Strategically for Long-Term Savings
If your air conditioner or heat pump is more than 12–15 years old, upgrading could save you hundreds of dollars per year. Modern systems use vapor-compression refrigeration and variable-speed compressors to cool your home more efficiently while using less power.
Consider these energy-efficient improvements:
- High-efficiency air conditioners or air-source heat pumps designed for high-altitude performance.
- ENERGY STAR® appliances, which produce less heat indoors.
- Low-SHGC windows and upgraded insulation to reduce solar heat gain.
- Take advantage of rebates and incentives through Colorado Springs Utilities or state energy programs for homeowners investing in efficient HVAC systems.
8. Work With HVAC Technicians You Can Trust
At Falling Star Heating & Cooling, we know that knowing how to lower utility bills starts with a reliable HVAC system. From regular tune-ups and filter replacements to full system upgrades, our experienced team helps homeowners save energy without sacrificing comfort.
Whether you’re preparing your home for the summer heat or planning a future upgrade, we’re here to make your cooling system more efficient, sustainable, and affordable. Claim your free estimate today!
FAQs About Air Conditioning Units and Energy Costs
If I turn off my air conditioner completely when I leave, will I save more?
Not necessarily. When your home heats up too much, your system must work harder to cool it back down. It’s usually better to raise the temperature a few degrees instead of turning the system off completely.
How much can I save by adjusting my thermostat?
Each degree you raise your thermostat can save about 3–5% on cooling costs. Combine that with off-peak energy use and maintenance, and you could save up to 10–15% each month.
What runs up the electric bill the most?
For most Colorado Springs homeowners, air conditioning and heating use the most electricity, especially during extreme weather months. Other common culprits include water heaters, clothes dryers, and old appliances. Because your HVAC system runs longer and harder in summer, even small inefficiencies — like dirty filters, poor insulation, or thermostat mismanagement — can cause noticeable spikes in your energy bill.
How can I save money on AC bills?
Start with regular AC maintenance and smart thermostat settings. Replace air filters every 1–3 months, clean debris around the outdoor condenser, and schedule annual tune-ups to keep your air conditioner running efficiently. Raising your thermostat just a few degrees, using ceiling fans to circulate air, and sealing air leaks can reduce strain on your system and lower monthly costs by up to 15%.
How can I lower utility bills in the summer?
To keep summer energy bills down, focus on reducing heat gain and optimizing your cooling habits. Close blinds on sun-facing windows, use natural ventilation during cooler evenings, and shift energy use to off-peak hours (before 5 p.m. or after 9 p.m.). Combining these strategies with efficient HVAC operation — like using smart thermostats and maintaining your system — will keep your home comfortable without driving up costs.
Does keeping the AC at 72 save money?
Actually, the opposite is true. The lower your thermostat setting, the more your air conditioner has to run — which means higher energy use. Setting your thermostat closer to 78°F is generally the most energy-efficient balance between comfort and savings. If 78° feels too warm, supplement with fans or passive cooling to stay comfortable.
