At South River EMC, we’re here to help you stay cool while using energy wisely. Here are some simple, effective ways to save energy (and money!) during the summer months:

Set it and Save

If you have a heat pump, thermostat settings matter. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and using air conditioning. That’s the sweet spot between comfort and efficiency. Be sure your FAN setting is on AUTO—not ON—so it’s not running nonstop and wasting energy. If you have more than one HVAC unit, make sure both are set to the same temperature and mode (cooling vs. heating). This helps them work together instead of against each other. If one system is cooling while the other is set slightly warmer or even on a different mode (like “auto heat/cool”), it can create an energy tug-of-war—leading to inefficient cycling, higher energy use, and less comfort.

And if you’re heading out for vacation, bump the thermostat temp up a few degrees—around 82–85°F should be safe and energy-efficient while you’re away. That way, your system isn’t working hard to cool an empty house.

Keep Vents and Doors Open

Air needs to move freely to cool your home efficiently. Make sure supply vents are open in every room, and keep interior doors open or at least slightly cracked. This allows return air to circulate properly and prevents pressure imbalances that can reduce comfort and increase energy use.

Seal It Up Tight

Cool air slipping out of your house and hot air sneaking in makes your AC work overtime. Seal any gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and ducts. Caulking, weather-stripping, or adding insulation—especially around crawl spaces, attics, and garages—can make a big difference.

Be Smart with Sunlight

Close blinds or curtains during the sunniest parts of the day. Blocking out direct sunlight can keep your home noticeably cooler.

Keep It Flowing

Change your HVAC filters regularly—every 30 days. Stick with thinner filters unless your system specifically calls for a thicker one. Thick filters can restrict airflow and strain your system.

Fans Are Your Friend

Ceiling or box fans help circulate cool air. Just remember: fans cool people, not rooms. Turn them off when you leave to save electricity.

Get a System Checkup

Don’t skip the summer service visit. Having your HVAC system professionally inspected and tuned up ensures it’s running efficiently and can prevent costly breakdowns when you need cool air the most. Energy savings don’t have to come at the expense of comfort. A few small adjustments can go a long way toward lowering your bill and keeping your home comfortable all summer long.