Top 10 Ways to Boost AC Efficiency This Summer

Cape Cod summers are getting hotter, longer, and more humid — and your AC is bearing the brunt of it. If your system’s running constantly, it’s not just trying to keep you cool. It’s fighting heat, humidity, and often, inefficiency.

The good news? A few simple adjustments can make a big difference.

Boosting your AC’s efficiency isn’t just about comfort — though that’s a big part of it.

It also means:

• Lower utility bills
• Less wear and tear on your equipment
• A longer lifespan for your system
• A more sustainable way to stay cool

At Cape Cod Heat Pumps, we help homeowners across the Cape keep their homes cool without burning through energy. Whether you live in a breezy coastal cottage or a large, multi-level home, these tips can help you optimize your system and your comfort.

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1. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

If you only do one thing this summer, make it this. An AC tune-up in Cape Cod ensures your system is working efficiently, safely, and reliably — before a heatwave hits.

During a professional tune-up, our technicians will:

• Clean evaporator and condenser coils
• Check refrigerant levels and pressure
• Tighten electrical connections
• Lubricate moving parts
• Inspect ductwork for leaks
• Test thermostat accuracy

These routine checks can improve system performance by up to 15%. And catching small issues early? That’s how you avoid big breakdowns in July.

2. Change or Clean Your Air Filter Regularly

It’s easy to forget, but clogged filters are one of the most common causes of AC inefficiency. A dirty filter limits airflow, which forces your system to work harder (and longer) to cool your home.

We recommend checking your filter every month and replacing it every 1–3 months, depending on usage. If you have pets or allergies, you might need to change it even more often.

A clean filter isn’t just better for your AC — it’s better for your lungs, too.

3. Seal Air Leaks in Your Home

Even the most efficient AC can’t keep up with a leaky home.

Gaps around windows, doors, crawlspaces, or attic hatches allow cooled air to escape and hot, humid Cape Cod air to seep in. That means your AC is constantly compensating — using more energy to achieve the same result.

Sealing leaks with weatherstripping or caulk, and improving insulation (especially in attics and basements), can significantly reduce energy waste. And yes, it will make your home feel more comfortable overall.

4. Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats give you more control and help prevent unnecessary cooling when no one’s home.

You can:

• Set custom cooling schedules
• Adjust settings remotely from your phone
• Monitor energy usage
• Receive maintenance alerts
  

If you’re upgrading to a new AC system or heat pump, ask us about compatible smart thermostat options. They’re a small investment that pays off quickly.

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5. Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clean and Clear

Your outdoor condenser unit releases the heat pulled from inside your home — but it can’t do that if it’s clogged with leaves, grass clippings, or beach sand.

Keep at least 2 feet of clearance around your unit. Trim back nearby plants, and give the fins a gentle rinse with a garden hose to clear away dust and pollen. (Skip the power washer — it can bend or damage the fins.)

A clear unit = better airflow = more efficient cooling.

6. Close Blinds or Curtains During the Hottest Hours

Direct sunlight streaming through windows can increase indoor temps by several degrees. On Cape Cod, those long summer days can lead to massive solar gain — especially in rooms with south- or west-facing windows.

Use blinds, shades, or blackout curtains during peak daylight hours to block out heat. You can also consider window films that reflect UV rays while still letting in natural light.

Think of it as sunscreen for your home.

7. Set Your Thermostat Higher When You’re Away

There’s no reason to keep your house at 72°F when you’re at work or out at the beach. Raise your thermostat to 78°F when home and up to 85°F when away.

Every degree you increase saves roughly 3–5% on energy costs. And when you combine this with closed blinds and ceiling fans, you won’t even notice the difference in comfort.

8. Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Cool Air

Ceiling fans don’t actually cool the air — but they do make it feel cooler on your skin by increasing airflow. This lets you bump up the thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.

Just make sure your fan is rotating counterclockwise in summer mode to push air downward.

Fun fact: using fans strategically can help your AC rest more often, reducing its run time and wear.

9. Avoid Heat-Producing Appliances Midday

Your oven, stove, dishwasher, and dryer all generate heat that warms up your house — and sends your AC into overdrive. Try running these appliances early in the morning or late in the evening when outside temps are lower.

Or better yet, embrace the Cape Cod lifestyle: grill outside, hang laundry to dry, and save the lasagna for fall.

10. Upgrade to a High-Efficiency AC or Heat Pump

If your current AC is over 10 years old, it may be costing you more than you realize. Older systems are less efficient and more prone to breakdowns, especially under summer stress.

Today’s high-efficiency heat pumps and ductless mini-splits offer whisper-quiet comfort and significant energy savings. And through the Mass Save® rebate program, you could qualify for thousands of dollars in rebates — plus 0% financing.

Cape Cod Heat Pumps can help you navigate the upgrade process from start to finish.

Bonus Tip: Book a Home Energy Assessment

Not sure where your home is losing energy? A home energy assessment can reveal leaks, insulation gaps, outdated appliances, and more.

You’ll get a full report, personalized recommendations, and access to even more rebates and incentives — all through Mass Save®.

Why Choose Cape Cod Heat Pumps?

We live and work here, too. That means we understand the unique demands of life on the Cape: salt air corrosion, high humidity, aging homes, and busy summer rentals.

Our team specializes in HVAC maintenance in Cape Cod, energy-efficient upgrades, and systems designed to thrive in our coastal climate.

Book your AC tune-up or request a quote today. Whether you’re looking to extend the life of your system or explore a full AC upgrade in Cape Cod, we’re here to help.

Let’s make this your most efficient summer yet.

Call Now (508) 833-4822