How to save money on air conditioning as electric bills climb
As Americans endure another bout of extreme heat, experts say small thermostat adjustments and other energy-saving steps can help reduce soaring cooling costs.
As much of the U.S. swelters through near-record temperatures over the July 4 weekend, households can expect another unpleasant surprise: higher electric bills. Cooling costs are projected to rise 10.5% this summer from a year ago, according to the National Energy Assistance Directors Association.
Many Americans face a tough choice between cranking up the air conditioning and keeping their utility bills in check. The cost of electricity has been rising faster than overall inflation over the past few years, according to NEADA. Data center energy consumption, higher national gas prices and necessary repairs to the electric grid are pushing up electricity costs .
Still, there are techniques for balancing AC use with energy efficiency, the group said.
"There's nothing people can do about the price of electricity," energy economist Mark Wolfe, the executive director of NEADA, told CBS News. "But they can manage their electric consumption more efficiently."
While using less air conditioning can lower utility bills, Wolfe cautions against making abrupt changes. Instead, he recommends raising the thermostat gradually — about one degree every couple of days — until it reaches no higher than 78 degrees Fahrenheit.
"For every one degree you turn your cooling up, you can save 3% on your electric bill," Wolfe said.