How I'm Keeping My Cooling Costs Down as Summer Temps Soar

As the summer of 2025 brings record-breaking heat across the United States, a lot of us are bracing for one thing: sky-high energy bills. I'm not exaggerating—experts are predicting that the average U.S. household will pay over $780 just to keep cool this season, which is a 6% increase from last year. 

If you're like me and trying not to sweat every time you check your electric bill, and are looking for ways to save money on summer cooling, here are some simple, practical tips I've picked up, along with information on government programs that can provide financial assistance.

🧰 1. My A/C Wasn’t the Problem—But My Air Filter Was 

First thing I did? I changed the air filter on my central A/C system. I hadn’t swapped it out in months (oops), and it was choking up the airflow, making my system work double-time. Now, I mark it on my calendar to change every 30–60 days. Cheap fix, big difference.

🛠️ 2. Got an A/C Tune-Up—Totally Worth It 

I booked a summer HVAC tune-up special with a local technician for $89. He cleaned the coils, topped off the refrigerant, and sealed a leaky duct I didn’t even know I had. My A/C now cools my house faster and shuts off more often—hello, energy savings. Pro Tip: Many utility companies offer rebates or discounts for seasonal maintenance. Definitely worth checking!

🧊 3. I Set My Thermostat to 78°F and Let a Smart Thermostat Do the Rest 

78°F seemed warm at first, but with ceiling fans running counterclockwise, it actually feels fine. I also bought a smart thermostat that adjusts based on when I’m home or asleep. I got a $50 rebate from my energy provider just for installing it!

🌬️ 4. I’m Looking Into a High-Efficiency HVAC Upgrade 

Here’s something wild: my A/C is over 12 years old, and that alone makes it 20–30% less efficient than today’s systems. I’m now shopping around for a new ENERGY STAR® certified heat pump, which works for both cooling and heating. If I replace it, I could qualify for: Up to $2,000 in federal tax credits State-level rebates ($500–$1,200 depending on location) Lower monthly bills for the next decade 

👉 Not bad for a big investment that pays off quickly.

🧰5. Government Financial Help for Low Income Families— It Was Surprisingly Easy

 I had no idea how many people qualify for energy bill help until I looked into LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program). Depending on your income and household size, you could get hundreds of dollars in cooling aid this summer. 

Another program I used? WAP (Weatherization Assistance Program). They helped seal up air leaks and added insulation in my attic—for free. Now my house stays cooler, and my energy bill stays lower. You can learn more and apply through LIHEAP and WAP.

Related Articles: LIHEAP Can Help You Save on Energy Bills in 2025

🔌 6. Small Fixes That Made a Big Difference 

Here’s what I do now: 

Change air filters monthly – My A/C runs better and uses less energy. 

Avoid cooking with the oven on hot days – I grill outside or use my microwave to keep the house cool. 

Do laundry in the evening – Running the washer/dryer at night reduces heat and strain on the system.  

🏠 7. Should You Upgrade Your System?