Summer in Sherman Oaks can be brutally hot, and that means your air conditioner is working overtime. But with rising energy bills, cooling your home shouldn’t burn a hole in your wallet. Fortunately, there are smart, simple ways to stay comfortable while reducing your energy consumption. This guide reveals 10 smart energy-saving tips for summer AC usage in Sherman Oaks that will help you enjoy a cooler home without the financial heat.
1. Set Your Thermostat Wisely
Ideal Thermostat Settings for Comfort and Efficiency
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F (26°C) when you’re home and 85°F (29°C) when you’re away. Each degree above 72°F can save up to 3% on your cooling costs.
Using Programmable and Smart Thermostats Effectively
Smart thermostats adjust temperatures based on your routine. They can:
-
Turn off cooling when you’re out
-
Pre-cool your home before you arrive
-
Track usage to improve energy efficiency
Popular options like Nest or Ecobee even offer rebates through local utility companies.
2. Use Ceiling Fans Strategically
How Fans Help Distribute Cool Air
Ceiling fans don’t cool air but help circulate it. This breeze allows you to set the thermostat 4°F higher without sacrificing comfort.
Best Practices for Summer Fan Usage
-
Set fans to rotate counter-clockwise in summer
-
Turn them off when leaving a room to save electricity
-
Use fans in occupied rooms only
3. Keep Blinds and Curtains Closed
Blocking Sunlight to Reduce Indoor Heat
Up to 30% of unwanted heat comes from windows. Keeping blinds or curtains drawn during the hottest parts of the day significantly reduces the indoor temperature.
Best Window Treatments for Thermal Insulation
-
Reflective blinds
-
Blackout curtains
-
Thermal shades
Especially useful on west- and south-facing windows in Sherman Oaks.
4. Schedule Regular AC Maintenance
Importance of Pre-Summer Checkups
Annual maintenance ensures:
-
Proper refrigerant levels
-
Efficient airflow
-
Clean coils and filters
An inefficient system can cost you 20–30% more in energy bills.
Tasks to Include in Your Annual Tune-Up
-
Clean evaporator and condenser coils
-
Check refrigerant levels
-
Inspect thermostat calibration
-
Lubricate moving parts
Hire a certified Sherman Oaks HVAC technician to do it right.
5. Replace or Clean Air Filters Often
How Dirty Filters Increase Energy Usage
Clogged filters block airflow, making your AC work harder. This leads to higher bills and faster wear on your system.
Frequency Guidelines for Sherman Oaks Residents
-
Every 30–60 days in summer
-
More often if you have pets or allergies
-
Mark your calendar to stay consistent
6. Seal Air Leaks and Insulate
Where to Check for Air Leaks in Your Home
-
Around windows and doors
-
Attic access panels
-
Vents and ducts
Even small gaps can leak cooled air and waste energy.
Types of Insulation That Improve Summer Efficiency
-
Weatherstripping
-
Spray foam
-
Fiberglass batts
Proper insulation can reduce cooling needs by up to 15%.
7. Avoid Using Heat-Generating Appliances
Appliances That Add Unwanted Heat
-
Ovens
-
Stoves
-
Dryers
-
Dishwashers
Using these during the hottest hours can counteract your AC’s work.
Tips to Minimize Internal Heat During Peak Hours
-
Cook with a microwave, slow cooker, or grill
-
Air dry clothes
-
Run appliances at night
8. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient AC Unit
Benefits of High SEER-Rated Systems
New units with a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 16+ can save 20–40% compared to older models.
Available Incentives and Rebates in Sherman Oaks
Check with:
-
SoCalGas and LADWP
-
Federal tax credits
-
Local HVAC vendors offering manufacturer promotions
9. Optimize Your Ductwork
Importance of Sealed and Clean Ducts
Leaky or dirty ducts can waste up to 30% of your cooled air. Duct sealing boosts efficiency and improves airflow to all rooms.
When to Call a Professional for Duct Inspection
-
Uneven cooling
-
Dusty rooms
-
Whistling sounds from vents
Certified HVAC companies in Sherman Oaks can conduct airflow diagnostics and duct sealing.
10. Use Zoning and Smart Cooling Methods
Benefits of Zoned Cooling for Larger Homes
Zoning systems divide your home into cooling “zones,” allowing you to:
-
Cool occupied areas only
-
Avoid wasting energy on unused rooms
Integrating Smart AC Systems for Personalized Comfort
-
Smart dampers and thermostats
-
Voice control through Alexa or Google
-
Schedule cooling based on daily routines
Bonus Tip: Leverage Natural Ventilation
When and How to Use Natural Cooling Techniques
Open windows in the early morning or late evening when outside temperatures drop. Use box fans to push hot air out and pull cooler air in. Great for those rare cool Sherman Oaks nights.
FAQs
1. How can I reduce AC costs in Sherman Oaks during the summer?
Set your thermostat to 78°F, use fans, and block direct sunlight during the day.
2. Is it worth investing in a smart thermostat?
Yes. Smart thermostats can reduce energy bills by 10–15% and offer scheduling convenience.
3. How often should I replace my AC filter?
Every 30–60 days in summer, more frequently with pets or high usage.
4. What temperature should I leave my AC at when I’m not home?
85°F is ideal to prevent overheating while saving energy.
5. Should I close vents in unused rooms?
No. It can disrupt air balance and strain your system. Use zoning instead.
6. Are there rebates for upgrading AC systems in Sherman Oaks?
Yes. LADWP and SoCalGas offer various rebates. Ask your HVAC provider for assistance.
Conclusion
Staying cool in Sherman Oaks doesn’t have to come with high utility bills. By following these 10 smart energy-saving tips for summer AC usage, you can maintain a comfortable home while keeping your energy costs in check. From simple thermostat adjustments to advanced upgrades like zoning, these steps help you beat the heat the smart way.
