In Connecticut, summer is almost always the season for air conditioning systems. We tend to get very hot summers every year, and this causes us to naturally turn our air conditioning units to full blast. While there’s nothing better than walking into a consistently cool room during the height of Summer, it’s not always affordable. Although many of us know that it’s coming, it’s not uncommon for even the most seasoned Connecticut homeowners to look at their summer A/C bill in disbelief; every year, we look up at the sky and ask, “how could it be THIS high?”  If this question feels all too familiar to you, then you’re in luck. Today, we’re sharing 4 tips that can help you reduce these drastic summer A/C costs.

Install a Smart Thermostat

Smart technology has come a long way in the last few years. New-age digital thermostats automatically adjust to the weather outside. When your thermostat knows how hot it is outside, it knows what temperature it can hover at to save you the most money. In addition, they can be programmed to go into “away” mode when there’s no movement in your home. This allows it to automatically adjust to the most energy-efficient temperature. 

Balance A/C with Portable Fans & Ceiling Fans 

Rather than have 2 A/C’s going in the same room, try reducing it to 1 A/C and a few fans. If you can afford to install a ceiling fan, then that will certainly help draw out hot air; otherwise, more portable options can work just fine. They promote circulation, and they use far less electricity than a standard window air conditioning unit. 

Cover the Sunniest Spots with Trees or Plants

Do you have a real “hot spot” outside? You know, an area of your yard where the sun just peers right in from? Sure, blinds and shades help, but you know what works even better? Trees and plants! Blocking the sun with a nice big tree will keep the glare out and the tree happy. Thankfully it’s quite easy to plant trees. Give it a try–you won’t regret it!

Draw The Curtains

You probably know this already, right? Well, maybe you don’t! Keeping the curtains and shades drawn will help keep the room cool. Ideally, you should choose honeycomb style shades. These shades are specially designed to trap hot air; alternatively, get drapes that are labeled “energy efficient.”