If you've lived in the southwest Chicago suburbs for more than one summer, you know what happens to your electric bill in July and August. For many homeowners, cooling costs account for 50–70% of their summer electricity use. The good news: there are practical steps you can take right now — in May — to reduce those bills significantly before the heat arrives.
1. Get Your AC Tuned Up Before Summer
A dirty, poorly maintained AC system uses 10–25% more electricity than a clean, well-maintained one. An annual tune-up includes cleaning the coils, checking refrigerant levels, and ensuring all components are working efficiently. Todd's HVAC Services offers AC tune-ups for $49 in Homer Glen and the southwest Chicago suburbs. The energy savings alone typically pay for the tune-up within the first month of heavy use.
2. Replace Your Air Filter Monthly During Cooling Season
A clogged air filter forces your AC to work harder, using more electricity to move the same amount of air. During peak cooling season (June–August), check your filter every 30 days and replace it when it's gray. This is the single easiest way to keep your system running efficiently.
3. Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that setting your thermostat 7–10°F higher for 8 hours a day can save up to 10% on cooling costs. A programmable thermostat lets you automatically raise the temperature when you're at work and cool the house down before you return. Smart thermostats (like Nest or Ecobee) learn your schedule and optimize automatically.
4. Set the Fan to AUTO, Not ON
When your thermostat fan is set to ON, the fan runs continuously — even when the AC isn't actively cooling. This wastes electricity and can actually make your home feel more humid, because the fan blows moisture back into the air before the coil can drain it. Set the fan to AUTO so it only runs during cooling cycles.
5. Keep Vents Open and Unobstructed
Closing vents in unused rooms doesn't save energy — it actually increases pressure in the duct system, making the AC work harder and potentially causing damage. Keep all vents open and make sure furniture, rugs, and curtains aren't blocking them.
6. Use Ceiling Fans Strategically
Ceiling fans don't cool air — they create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler. This allows you to set the thermostat 4°F higher without sacrificing comfort. Make sure fans are set to run counterclockwise in summer (the switch is usually on the motor housing). Turn fans off when you leave the room — they cool people, not spaces.
7. Block Heat Gain With Blinds and Curtains
Up to 30% of unwanted heat in your home comes through windows. Closing blinds and curtains on south- and west-facing windows during the hottest part of the day (noon–6 PM) can reduce cooling loads significantly. Cellular shades and blackout curtains are the most effective options.
8. Avoid Heat-Generating Appliances During Peak Hours
Ovens, dishwashers, and clothes dryers generate significant heat. Running them in the morning or evening (rather than midday) reduces the cooling load on your AC during the hottest part of the day. Use the microwave or grill outside when possible.
9. Seal Air Leaks Around Doors and Windows
Cool air escaping through gaps around doors and windows forces your AC to run longer. Check weatherstripping on exterior doors and caulk around window frames. This is a low-cost improvement that pays dividends year-round.
10. Consider Upgrading an Old, Inefficient System
If your AC is 12+ years old, it may have a SEER rating of 10 or lower. Modern systems start at 14 SEER (the federal minimum) and go up to 25+ SEER for high-efficiency models. Upgrading from a 10 SEER to a 16 SEER system reduces cooling costs by approximately 37%. Financing is available — the monthly savings often offset the financing payment.
Todd's HVAC Services has been helping Homer Glen and southwest Chicago suburb homeowners reduce energy costs for nearly 40 years. Call or text 708-742-7935 to schedule an AC tune-up or get a free estimate on a new system.
Related: How To Choose a New AC System for Your Illinois Home | AC Services — Homer Glen