Beat the Texas Heat: Energy-Saving Tips for Running Your AC in Late Summer

Why AC Unit Efficiency Matters in the Late Summer

San Antonio summers are long and hot. By late summer, your AC system has already been running for months on end, which makes efficiency more important than ever.

When your AC unit isn’t running at peak performance, you’ll notice the effects in several ways:

• Higher bills: Dirty filters or leaky ducts can drive up cooling costs.
• Uneven comfort throughout the house: Some rooms stay warmer than others.
• More strain: Overworked systems wear out faster and break down sooner.

With San Antonio’s late-summer highs averaging around 95°F, efficiency isn’t just about saving money—it’s about comfort and avoiding costly HVAC repairs. For a detailed guide on preparing your AC before peak heat, check out this seasonal AC preparation guide.

Optimize Thermostat Settings for Maximum Savings

How you set your thermostat determines how much energy you use. Optimizing thermostat settings is one of the easiest and one of the most effective ways to save money on AC bills.

Here’s how you can make the most of your thermostat:

• Set to 78°F while at home for the best balance of comfort and savings.
• Raise the temp 7–10°F higher when away to cut cooling costs by up to 10%.
• Use a programmable thermostat to match your daily routine.
• Upgrade to a smart thermostat for remote control and automatic adjustments.
• Avoid overcooling. Dropping into the 60s won’t cool your home faster.

Extra Tip: Pair your thermostat with ceiling fans. Fans make rooms feel 4–5°F cooler, so you can keep settings higher without losing comfort.

For more year-round tips on managing your AC system, see our guide on optimizing your AC system for different seasons.

The Importance of Regular HVAC Unit Maintenance

Think of HVAC unit maintenance as preventive care for your home comfort system. Just like you wouldn’t drive your car 50,000 miles without an oil change, you shouldn’t expect your AC to run at its best without professional attention.

Why Maintenance Matters:

• Restores efficiency: Dust and worn parts lower performance; a tune-up brings it back to optimal condition.
• Prevents breakdowns: Small issues like loose wiring or low refrigerant can be fixed before they become costly.
• Extends lifespan: Well-maintained systems can last 15+ years, neglected ones often don’t.
• It protects warranty: Many manufacturers require annual maintenance to keep coverage valid.

What’s Included in a Tune-Up?

At 1st Call Plumbing & AC, our licensed technicians perform a detailed inspection and cleaning designed to catch problems before they escalate. A professional tune-up covers all the essentials—checking refrigerant levels, cleaning coils for better heat transfer, inspecting and tightening electrical connections, testing airflow for even cooling, recalibrating the thermostat, and flushing the condensate drain to prevent leaks or water damage.

Homeowner Bonus: DIY Maintenance Steps

While professional service is critical, there are also simple tasks homeowners can do between visits:

• Replace filters regularly (every 1–3 months depending on usage)
• Keep the outdoor condenser clear of leaves, dirt, and debris
• Make sure supply and return vents are open and unobstructed

By combining professional HVAC maintenance in San Antonio with a few simple homeowner tasks, you’ll maximize efficiency and give your AC the best chance of surviving late summer without a hitch.

Keep Airflow Strong with Filter and Duct Care

One of the most overlooked parts of AC efficiency is airflow. Without steady, unrestricted airflow, your system can’t circulate cool air properly, which means it has to work harder and longer to maintain your desired temperature. That wasted effort shows up in higher utility bills and unnecessary strain on your unit.

Ductwork: The Hidden Energy Drain

Your ducts are responsible for carrying cool air throughout your home. But if they’re dirty or leaky, a significant portion of that air never makes it to your living spaces.

• Leaks waste energy: Leaky ducts can lose 20–30% of cooled air.
• Watch for warning signs: Hot or cold spots, excess dust, or higher bills often point to duct issues.
• Seal or clean ducts: Professional sealing saves energy, while cleaning removes debris and improves air quality.

Air Filters: The First Line of Defense

• Replace regularly: Swap filters every 1–3 months. Homes with pets or allergies may need more frequent changes.
• Choose the right filter: Higher MERV ratings catch finer particles but can restrict airflow. Always use the type recommended for your system.
• Check monthly: Hold the filter to the light—if you can’t see through it, replace it.

Why Airflow Matters for Efficiency

• Reduced strain = longer AC lifespan
• Strong airflow = even cooling in every room
• Better air quality = fewer allergens and pollutants indoors

Want more? Our year-round AC efficiency guide explains how to keep airflow steady all year long.

Smart Cooling Habits that Reduce AC Strain

The way you use your home can make a big difference in how hard your AC has to work. Simple energy-saving cooling habits can keep your home comfortable while lowering energy costs.

• Start with air circulation. Ceiling fans set counterclockwise push cool air down, creating a breeze that makes rooms feel several degrees cooler. Portable fans are useful in bedrooms or offices, while whole-house fans (if available) can pull in fresh evening air.
• Blocking heat is just as important. Keep blinds or curtains closed on sunny windows, or upgrade to reflective coverings and window films to stop solar heat before it enters your home. Reduce indoor heat from cooking and electronics where possible.
• Take advantage of cooler nights by opening windows for natural ventilation and using fans to circulate the air.

These small steps save money on AC bills and reduce strain on your system during San Antonio’s toughest late-summer days.

Seal and Insulate for Long-Term Comfort

You can have the most efficient AC system in the world, but if your home isn’t sealed or insulated properly, you’re still wasting energy. Think of it like filling a leaky bucket—the cool air your AC produces escapes before you can fully enjoy it.

Seal Air Leaks

• Doors and windows. Apply weatherstripping or caulk to gaps where air sneaks out. Even small cracks add up over time.
• Outlets and switches. Use inexpensive foam gaskets behind outlet covers to block hidden leaks.
• Baseboards and attic hatches. These often-overlooked areas can be major culprits for lost air.

Insulate Properly

• Attic insulation. Heat rises, and in Texas, attics can reach 130–150°F in summer. Without good insulation, that heat seeps into your living spaces.
• Duct insulation. Ducts that run through unconditioned spaces (like attics or garages) should be insulated to prevent cooled air from warming before it reaches you.
• Upgrade where needed. If your home is older, it may not meet current insulation standards. Adding insulation is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve efficiency.

Why This Matters in San Antonio

• A well-sealed, insulated home keeps cool air in and hot air out.
• Your AC doesn’t have to run as long or as hard, lowering bills.
• Indoor comfort stays consistent, even during late summer heat waves.

Combining sealing and insulation improvements with efficient AC operation creates a long-term strategy for San Antonio homeowners who want to save money on AC bills and improve comfort year-round.

Upgrading to Energy-Efficient AC Equipment

Even with great maintenance, every AC has a lifespan. Once your unit reaches 10–15 years, rising energy bills, frequent repairs, or uneven cooling are clear signs it may be costing you more than it’s worth.

Modern AC systems offer big advantages. Higher SEER ratings mean lower energy use, variable-speed technology prevents unnecessary wear, and many models connect seamlessly with smart thermostats for better control and savings.

At 1st Call Plumbing & AC, we guide homeowners through financing options and free estimates to compare repair versus replacement. While the upfront cost can feel significant, the payoff of lower bills, stronger performance, and lasting peace of mind is worth it when your system is nearing the end of its life.

Signs It’s Time to Call the Professionals

While there are plenty of things homeowners can do to improve AC efficiency, some situations call for expert attention. Trying to handle major AC problems yourself can lead to bigger issues or even safety hazards.

When to Call for AC Service

• Weak or no airflow. This could signal duct leaks, a failing blower motor, or frozen coils.
• Strange noises. Squealing, hissing, or banging noises are warning signs of mechanical problems.
• Spiking energy bills. If your usage hasn’t changed but bills keep climbing, your system may be struggling.
• Frequent cycling. Short cycling (unit turning on and off repeatedly) strains your system and wastes energy.
• Leaking water or refrigerant. Moisture around your AC could point to clogged drain lines or refrigerant leaks—both require professional repair.

With over 35 years of experience, 1st Call Plumbing & AC provides licensed technicians, honest recommendations, and no trip charges. Sometimes, the most energy-efficient step is calling in a pro before a small issue becomes a costly breakdown.

Why San Antonio Homeowners Trust 1st Call Plumbing & AC

When it comes to something as critical as your home’s cooling system, you want a company that shows up on time, does the job right, leaves their work area clean and stands behind their work. That’s why more homeowners across San Antonio, Boerne, New Braunfels, and Spring Branch choose 1st Call Plumbing & AC.

We’ve been serving the Greater San Antonio area for over 35 years, and we’ve built our reputation on honesty, integrity, professionalism, quality and outstanding service.

Here’s why San Antonio area homeowners count on us:

We are licensed, insured, and have proudly earned a 4.9 Google rating across more than 1,900 customer reviews. Whether you need an emergency HVAC repair or it’s time to replace your AC system, we’re here for you 7 days a week. We know your AC system doesn’t take the weekend off.

✅ Certified HVAC technicians with decades of hands-on experience and up to date training.
✅ FREE Onsite Estimates—we don’t guess. We assess the problem at your home.
✅ Upfront pricing—no surprises, no upselling.
✅ Thorough inspections and diagnostics to pinpoint issues accurately.
✅ Same-day and emergency HVAC service available for urgent needs.
✅ Satisfaction guarantee—we always stand behind our work!

From emergency AC repair to energy-efficient HVAC system installations, 1st Call Plumbing & AC is the trusted name for fast, courteous, and affordable service—no matter the season.

Request Your Free HVAC Estimate

Whether you need routine HVAC maintenance, duct care, or a brand-new high-efficiency system, 1st Call Plumbing & AC is here to help. Our team is committed to keeping San Antonio homeowners comfortable while saving money on energy costs.

Why wait?

✅ Get fast, accurate diagnosis
✅ Receive upfront pricing and honest recommendations
✅ Work with licensed, insured professionals who respect your home

📞 Call us today at 210-446-0200 or visit 1stcallplumbingandac.com to request a free service estimate.

Make your first call the right one—1st Call Plumbing & AC.