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Step 1
The most important item is saving on your air conditioning costs is insulation. Savings here will also save on your heating bill. You must have enough insulation to optimize your energy bills versus cost of insulation and air exchange. You do need some fresh air coming into the house but you also want to keep out the heat or the cold depending on the season. Choose your insulation type and amount carefully.
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Step 2
Look into all types of insulation and choose based on a combination of factors: ease of application, thermal performance, value, overall lifetime performance, safety aspects, and environmental aspects. For example, if you know you will be moving out of the house in two or three years, you might skimp on lifetime performance to get better value and thermal performance for the time being. If air sealing is important, you might choose spray foam insulation for just those areas and fiberglass batt for other areas. Calculate the best combination of factors.
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Step 3
The same sort of calculation holds true for your air conditioning system. If you are planning on staying in the house for any length of time, choose a system with a high SEER rating, one with a rating of 13 or 14 or better. You will recoup your investment in a few years. On the other hand, if you are replacing your system to sell the home in a few months, you may make a different decision. With a window unit, make sure you buy the right sized unit, not too big or too small. This will depend on a number of factors, like the size of the room, how many windows, or which direction the room faces.
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Step 4
Perform regular maintenance on your air conditioning systems. Change the filters monthly. Make sure your inside vents are not obstructed. Make sure your compressor is located in a shady spot. It should not be crowded with landscaping. However, shade trees and shrubs can help reduce your air conditioning costs. They must be placed correctly.
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Step 5
Use a programmable thermostat that will not cool the house when you are not there. Close drapes to prevent heat from the sun. Seal the air leaks in your house around vents, where utilities enter your house, gaps around chimneys, etc. Weatherstrip your doors and windows.
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Step 6
Use ceiling fans. Make sure your attic is well vented. You may consider a power vent or roof turbines. Be careful in the use of all lights and appliances during the hot months, from your stove to your lights to your computer. Use them as little as possible.
