How to Improve Your Air Conditioner’s Efficiency and Lower Energy Bills

When summer hits Ontario, your air conditioner becomes essential, but keeping your home cool can also drive up your energy bills. Fortunately, there are several practical ways to make your AC system more efficient and save money on cooling costs. And if your AC is running but not cooling, it could be more than just efficiency - check out our guide on why your AC might be blowing warm air and how to fix it for quick troubleshooting. 

In this guide, we’ll explain how AC systems consume energy, what homeowners can do to optimize performance, and when to consider professional help for long-term savings. 

How Your Air Conditioner Uses Energy 

Your air conditioner works by removing heat from your home’s indoor air and releasing it outside. To do this, the system relies on multiple components: the thermostat, blower motor, evaporator and condenser coils, refrigerant lines, and the compressor. 

The more effort your AC has to exert to remove heat due to dirty filters, poor airflow, or inefficient insulation - the more energy it consumes. An inefficient system not only drives up costs but also shortens the lifespan of your equipment. 

Simple Ways to Boost Efficiency and Cut Costs 

1. Replace or Clean Your Air Filter Regularly 

One of the easiest and most effective ways to improve efficiency is by keeping your air filter clean. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your AC to work harder and longer to cool your home. 

Ontario homeowners should check filters monthly during summer and replace them at least every 1 to 3 months, depending on use, pets, and indoor air quality. 

2. Set Your Thermostat Strategically 

Avoid setting your thermostat too low. Each degree you raise the temperature can reduce your cooling bill by up to 3%. A recommended summer setting is around 24–26°C (75–78°F) when you're home and higher when you're away. 

Consider installing a programmable or smart thermostat that adjusts automatically based on your schedule. This ensures energy isn’t wasted when no one is home. 

3. Keep Vents and Registers Clear 

Make sure furniture, rugs, or curtains aren’t blocking the air vents. Blocked airflow forces your AC to work harder to distribute cool air evenly. Walk around your home and check that every supply and return vent is unobstructed and open. 

4. Shade Your Outdoor Unit 

If your condenser unit sits in direct sunlight, it has to work harder to release heat. Planting shrubs or installing a shade structure (while maintaining 2–3 feet of clearance) can help the unit operate more efficiently without overheating. 

5. Seal Leaks Around Windows and Doors 

Cool air escapes through poorly sealed windows and doors, which causes your AC to run more than necessary. Use weather stripping or caulking to seal gaps and prevent air leaks. Adding insulation to attics or crawlspaces can also improve overall home efficiency. 

6. Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Cool Air 

Ceiling fans don’t lower the temperature but make the air feel cooler by improving circulation. This allows you to raise your thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. Always run fans counterclockwise during the summer for optimal cooling effect. 

7. Close Blinds and Curtains During Peak Hours 

Sunlight streaming through windows can significantly increase indoor temperatures. Use blackout curtains, shades, or blinds to reduce solar heat gain, especially on south and west-facing windows. 

8. Schedule Annual AC Maintenance 

Professional maintenance is critical for long-term efficiency. An annual tune-up includes inspecting refrigerant levels, cleaning coils, checking the blower motor, and ensuring all components work properly. 

At Go Lime, we recommend spring AC maintenance for all Ontario homeowners to prepare for peak cooling season. A well-maintained system can lower energy use by 15% or more. 

Consider Upgrading to a High-Efficiency Unit 

If your air conditioner is over 10–15 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Modern systems are significantly more energy-efficient and may qualify for Ontario energy rebates. Features to look for include: 

• ENERGY STAR® certification 
• Two-stage or variable-speed compressors 
• Smart thermostat compatibility 
• High SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating 

While a new AC unit requires upfront investment, the long-term savings in energy and repair costs can quickly add up. 

Final Thoughts: Efficient Cooling for Ontario Homes 

Improving your air conditioner’s efficiency doesn’t require major renovations. With a few simple adjustments like cleaning your filter, sealing leaks, and scheduling routine maintenance, you can keep your home cool without sending your energy bills through the roof. 

For expert AC maintenance, energy-efficient upgrades, or fast repairs, Go Lime is here to help homeowners across Ontario stay comfortable and cost-effective all summer long.