How to Lower Your Cooling Bills This Summer

Summers in Texas are no joke. When temperatures spike into the triple digits, it’s your air conditioner that takes the hit—and your electric bill skyrockets right behind it.

But staying cool doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank.

At Tarrant Mechanical, we’ve helped countless DFW homeowners and businesses reduce their cooling costs with smart HVAC strategies. Here’s how to lower your energy bill this summer while staying comfortable indoors.

1. Change Your Air Filter Regularly

Dirty filters make your HVAC system work harder, reducing airflow and increasing energy use. Replace your filter:

• Every 30–90 days (or more frequently with pets/allergies)
• With a properly sized, high-efficiency filter

Clean filters = better airflow = lower cooling bills.

2. Install a Smart Thermostat

A programmable or smart thermostat can save up to 10–15% on your cooling costs by:

• Automatically adjusting temps when you're away or asleep
• Letting you control your system from your phone
• Learning your preferences over time

Tarrant Mechanical installs and configures smart thermostats for homeowners and businesses alike.

3. Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up

Preventative maintenance keeps your system running efficiently and extends its lifespan.

What our tune-up includes:

• Coil cleaning
• Refrigerant check
• Fan motor inspection
• Electrical tightening
• Thermostat calibration

Routine HVAC service can lower energy usage by up to 20%.

4. Seal Air Leaks

Cool air escapes through tiny gaps in:

• Doors and windows
• Attics and crawl spaces
• Ductwork

Use weatherstripping, caulking, or have Tarrant Mechanical inspect your system for leaks—especially your air ducts, which can leak up to 30% of airflow in a typical home.

5. Keep Curtains Closed During Peak Sun Hours

Block out the sun from 12 PM to 4 PM to prevent heat gain. Consider:

• Blackout curtains
• Reflective blinds
• Window film for high-sun areas

This simple habit can reduce interior temperatures by several degrees—and your system won’t have to work as hard.

6. Set Your Thermostat Wisely

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to:

• 78°F when home
• 85°F when away

Every degree you raise it can save up to 3% on your bill. Smart thermostats make this effortless with automated scheduling.

7. Use Ceiling Fans Effectively

Ceiling fans don’t lower room temperature, but they improve airflow so you feel cooler.

Tip: Make sure the blades spin counterclockwise in summer to push air down. This allows you to raise the thermostat by a few degrees without losing comfort.

8. Shade Your Outdoor Condenser Unit

If your outdoor A/C unit is in direct sunlight, it works harder to release heat. Use:

• Landscaping
• A vented cover or small awning
• Strategic placement of shrubs (at least 2 feet away)

Keeping the condenser cool increases efficiency and reduces wear.

9. Consider Upgrading to a High-Efficiency System

If your HVAC system is 10–15 years old or needs frequent repairs, an upgrade may pay for itself through lower bills. New ENERGY STAR® units can:

• Cut cooling costs by 20–30%
• Improve comfort and indoor air quality
• Integrate with smart technology

Ask Tarrant Mechanical for a free quote on energy-efficient HVAC replacements.

Lower Bills, Higher Comfort—We Make It Simple

Lowering your summer cooling bill is all about efficiency. Whether you need a quick repair, system upgrade, or full energy audit, Tarrant Mechanical is here to help.

We’re DFW’s trusted HVAC professionals, offering:

• 24/7 support
• Honest pricing
• Maintenance plans
• Energy-saving upgrades

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