How to Reduce AC Costs in Pennsylvania Summer

Summer in Pennsylvania brings long, humid days with temperatures often climbing above 90°F, especially in the southeastern regions like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. As the heat intensifies, so does the demand for air conditioning—leading to skyrocketing electricity bills and increased strain on the power grid. For homeowners and renters alike, reducing AC costs during the summer months isn’t just about saving money; it’s about improving comfort, enhancing energy efficiency, and contributing to environmental sustainability. This comprehensive guide offers actionable, science-backed strategies to significantly lower your cooling expenses without sacrificing comfort. Whether you live in a historic row home in Harrisburg or a modern suburban house in Allentown, these methods are tailored to Pennsylvania’s unique climate and housing stock.

The average Pennsylvania household spends nearly $200 per month on electricity during peak summer months, with air conditioning accounting for up to 60% of that total. By implementing the right combination of behavioral changes, home improvements, and smart technology, many families can reduce their cooling costs by 25–40%—saving hundreds of dollars annually. This guide walks you through proven, practical steps to take control of your cooling expenses, from simple daily habits to long-term upgrades that increase home value and efficiency.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Seal Air Leaks Around Windows and Doors

Air leaks are one of the most common—and costly—reasons for inefficient cooling. In Pennsylvania homes, especially older ones built before 1980, gaps around window frames, door jambs, and baseboards can allow cool air to escape and warm, humid air to seep in. This forces your AC to work harder and longer to maintain a comfortable temperature.

To identify leaks, perform a simple test on a windy day: hold a lit candle or incense stick near window edges, door frames, and electrical outlets. If the flame flickers or smoke drifts sideways, you’ve found an air leak. Seal these with weatherstripping for doors and windows, and use caulk for stationary gaps like window trim and baseboards. For larger gaps, use expandable foam insulation—avoid using it around wiring or plumbing where expansion could cause damage.

Focus especially on attic hatches and crawl space entries, which are often overlooked but can account for up to 20% of air loss. Installing an insulated attic door cover can reduce heat gain significantly. These upgrades typically cost under $100 and pay for themselves in reduced energy use within one summer season.

2. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Window Treatments

Windows are the weakest thermal barrier in most homes. In Pennsylvania’s hot summers, direct sunlight through single-pane or poorly insulated windows can raise indoor temperatures by 15–20°F. Standard curtains offer minimal insulation, but specialized window treatments can make a dramatic difference.

Install blackout curtains or thermal-lined drapes with a white backing—these reflect sunlight and reduce heat gain by up to 33%. For maximum efficiency, close them during the hottest hours (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and open them at night to allow cooler air in. Consider adding reflective window film, which blocks up to 80% of solar heat while maintaining visibility. Look for films with a low solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) under 0.30.

For a more permanent solution, consider replacing old windows with ENERGY STAR® certified double-pane or triple-pane models with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings. While this is a larger investment, Pennsylvania residents may qualify for state rebates through the PA Energy Development Authority (PEDA) or federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act, which can offset up to 30% of the cost.

3. Optimize Thermostat Settings and Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Setting your thermostat too low doesn’t cool your home faster—it just makes your AC run longer. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and raising it to 85°F when you’re away. For every degree you raise the thermostat above 78°F, you can save 3–5% on cooling costs.

Upgrade to a programmable thermostat if you haven’t already. These allow you to set different temperatures for different times of day. Even better, install a smart thermostat like the Nest or Ecobee, which learns your habits, adjusts automatically based on occupancy, and provides detailed energy usage reports. Many Pennsylvania utility companies—including PECO, Duquesne Light, and PPL—offer rebates of $50–$150 for installing qualifying smart thermostats.

Pair your thermostat with a ceiling fan. Fans don’t cool the air—they create a wind-chill effect on your skin, allowing you to feel comfortable at higher thermostat settings. Set fans to rotate counterclockwise in summer to push cool air downward. Turn them off when you leave the room; fans cool people, not spaces.

4. Maintain Your Air Conditioning System

An unmaintained AC unit can use up to 15% more energy than a well-serviced one. Dirty filters, clogged condenser coils, and low refrigerant levels all reduce efficiency and strain the compressor.

Replace or clean your air filter every 30–60 days during peak summer. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing the system to work harder. Use MERV 8–13 filters for optimal balance between efficiency and air quality. If you have pets or live in a dusty area, consider changing them more frequently.

Clear debris from the outdoor condenser unit. Trim bushes and plants to at least two feet away from the unit to allow proper airflow. Clean the fins with a garden hose (turn off power first) to remove dirt and pollen buildup. Schedule professional maintenance at least once a year—ideally in spring—before the peak cooling season begins. A technician will check refrigerant levels, inspect ductwork, test electrical components, and calibrate the thermostat.

5. Reduce Internal Heat Sources

Your appliances and lighting generate heat—even when you’re not actively using them. In a small, sealed home, this “phantom heat” can add several degrees to indoor temperatures.

Switch to LED light bulbs. Incandescent and halogen bulbs waste 90% of their energy as heat. LEDs use up to 80% less energy and produce minimal heat. Replace all bulbs in high-traffic areas like kitchens, living rooms, and hallways.

Avoid using heat-generating appliances during the hottest parts of the day. Run the dishwasher, washing machine, and oven in the early morning or late evening. Use a microwave, slow cooker, or air fryer instead of the oven when possible. Unplug devices like coffee makers, toasters, and phone chargers when not in use—they still draw “vampire power” and emit heat.

If you cook frequently, install and use a range hood vented to the outside. This removes heat and moisture directly from the kitchen, reducing the load on your AC.

6. Improve Attic and Roof Insulation

Heat rises—and in Pennsylvania homes, the attic is often the biggest source of heat gain. Without adequate insulation, up to 40% of your cooling energy can escape through the roof.

Check your attic insulation levels. The recommended R-value for Pennsylvania is R-38 to R-60, depending on the region. Older homes often have only R-11 to R-19. Adding blown-in cellulose or fiberglass insulation can dramatically improve performance. Many utility companies offer free or discounted attic insulation assessments and rebates for upgrades.

Consider reflective roofing materials or a cool roof coating. These products reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional asphalt shingles. Some municipalities in Pennsylvania offer grants for cool roof installations as part of climate resilience programs.

Don’t forget ventilation. Proper attic ventilation—via soffit vents, ridge vents, or powered attic fans—helps expel trapped heat. Ensure vents are unobstructed by insulation or debris. A well-ventilated attic can be 30–40°F cooler than a sealed one, reducing heat transfer into living spaces.

7. Use Natural Ventilation Strategically

When nighttime temperatures dip below 70°F, open windows to let in cooler air. Cross-ventilation—opening windows on opposite sides of the house—creates airflow that can cool rooms naturally. Use window fans to pull in cool air from the north or east side of your home and exhaust hot air from the south or west side.

Install whole-house fans if your home has an attic. These powerful fans pull cool night air through open windows and push hot air into the attic, where it’s vented outside. They use 10% of the energy of a central AC system and can effectively cool your home in the early morning hours. Many Pennsylvania homeowners report being able to shut off their AC entirely for several weeks using this method.

8. Plant Shade Trees and Install External Shading

Landscaping can be one of the most effective—and beautiful—ways to reduce cooling costs. Deciduous trees planted on the south and west sides of your home provide shade during summer and allow sunlight to warm your home in winter after leaves fall.

Native Pennsylvania trees like red maple, white oak, and American beech grow quickly and offer dense canopies. Plant them 15–20 feet from your home to avoid root damage to foundations. Even small trees can reduce surface temperatures on walls and windows by 20–45°F.

If planting trees isn’t feasible, install external shading devices like awnings, pergolas with climbing vines, or shade sails. These block sunlight before it hits the glass, making them far more effective than interior window treatments. A properly installed awning can reduce heat gain through windows by up to 65%.

9. Consider Zoning Your Cooling System

If your home has multiple levels or rooms with different usage patterns, a single thermostat may be inefficient. For example, you may not need to cool bedrooms during the day or the basement at all.

Install a zoned HVAC system with motorized dampers and multiple thermostats. This allows you to cool only the areas you’re using. Alternatively, use portable or window AC units in frequently used rooms (like a home office) and turn off the central system. This approach can reduce overall energy use by 30% or more.

10. Monitor and Track Your Energy Usage

Understanding your energy consumption is the first step to reducing it. Most Pennsylvania utilities offer free online energy dashboards that show hourly or daily usage patterns.

Sign up for your provider’s energy tracking tool—PECO’s “My Account,” Duquesne Light’s “Energy Dashboard,” or PPL’s “Energy Usage Insights.” Look for spikes in usage during afternoon hours and correlate them with activities like running the oven or leaving windows open. Set alerts for when usage exceeds your historical average.

Use a plug-in energy monitor to track individual appliances. These inexpensive devices ($20–$40) show real-time power draw and can reveal which devices are energy hogs. Many people are surprised to learn that older refrigerators or unused electronics are costing them $50+ per month.

Best Practices

1. Set Realistic Comfort Goals

Human comfort is subjective, but research shows that most people feel comfortable between 74°F and 78°F in summer. Pushing your thermostat below 72°F doesn’t improve comfort—it increases costs and reduces humidity control. Instead, use fans, breathable fabrics, and hydration to enhance perceived comfort at higher temperatures.

2. Avoid “Cooling” the Outdoors

Never leave windows or doors open while the AC is running. This is one of the most common—and expensive—mistakes. Cool air escapes immediately, and your system must work overtime to compensate. If you want fresh air, turn off the AC and rely on natural ventilation.

3. Prioritize Maintenance Over Replacement

Many homeowners replace perfectly functional AC units out of fear of breakdowns. But unless your system is over 15 years old, inefficient (SEER below 13), or requires frequent repairs, maintenance is almost always the better financial choice. A new system can cost $5,000–$10,000; a tune-up costs $100–$200.

4. Don’t Overlook Humidity Control

Pennsylvania summers are humid. High humidity makes the air feel hotter than it is. Your AC removes humidity as it cools—but if it’s oversized or cycling too frequently, it won’t run long enough to dehumidify properly. Consider pairing your AC with a whole-house dehumidifier or using a standalone unit in damp areas like basements. Keeping relative humidity between 40–50% improves comfort and reduces perceived temperature.

5. Educate All Household Members

Energy savings require collective effort. Teach children to close doors when entering cooled rooms. Remind roommates to turn off lights and unplug devices. Create a simple checklist posted near the thermostat: “Close blinds. Turn off fans when leaving. Set temp to 78.” Small behavioral changes compound into major savings.

6. Time Your Energy Use for Off-Peak Hours

Many Pennsylvania utilities have time-of-use (TOU) rates, where electricity is more expensive during peak afternoon hours (2 p.m.–8 p.m.). Shift laundry, dishwashing, and charging electric vehicles to early morning or late night. Some providers even offer lower rates for charging EVs overnight. Check your utility’s website for TOU options and savings programs.

7. Use Ceiling Fans Correctly

Many people run ceiling fans in unoccupied rooms, thinking they cool the space. They don’t. Fans cool people through evaporation and air movement. Only run them when someone is in the room. Turn them off when you leave.

8. Avoid “Quick Fixes” That Backfire

Don’t use space heaters in summer to “test” your AC—this adds heat. Don’t block vents to “redirect” airflow—it increases pressure and can damage your system. Don’t set your thermostat extremely low to “cool faster”—it doesn’t work and wastes energy.

Tools and Resources

1. Pennsylvania Utility Rebate Programs

Every major utility in Pennsylvania offers incentives for energy-efficient upgrades:

• PECO: Offers up to $150 for smart thermostats, $500 for duct sealing, and free home energy assessments.
• Duquesne Light: Provides rebates up to $1,000 for HVAC upgrades and free attic insulation for qualifying homes.
• PPL Electric Utilities: Offers $75–$150 for smart thermostats and free energy-saving kits (LED bulbs, power strips, weatherstripping).
• Philadelphia Water Department: Provides free window film and insulation kits to residents in certain zip codes.

Visit pasaveenergy.com for a centralized database of state and utility rebates.

2. ENERGY STAR® Product Finder

Use the official ENERGY STAR® website to find certified air conditioners, thermostats, windows, and lighting. Products must meet strict efficiency standards. Look for the ENERGY STAR label when purchasing new equipment.

3. Home Energy Score (DOE)

The U.S. Department of Energy offers a free Home Energy Score tool. Input your home’s details (age, size, insulation, HVAC) and receive a score from 1–10 with customized recommendations. It’s a great way to prioritize upgrades.

4. DIY Energy Audit Kits

Many Pennsylvania libraries and community centers lend out energy audit kits that include a thermal leak detector, infrared thermometer, and smoke pencil. These help identify air leaks and insulation gaps without professional help.

5. Mobile Apps for Energy Tracking

Apps like EnergyHub, Sense, and Emporia connect to your smart meter or plug-in monitors to show real-time energy use by appliance. Some integrate with your utility account for automated savings tips.

6. Local Weather and Climate Data

Use the National Weather Service’s weather.gov to track heat advisories and humidity levels. Knowing when a heat dome is coming allows you to pre-cool your home overnight and close blinds early.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Harrisburg Row Home

Martha, a retiree living in a 1920s brick row home in Harrisburg, was paying $280/month for AC in July. Her home had single-pane windows, no attic insulation, and a 20-year-old AC unit. She implemented the following:

• Sealed all window and door gaps with weatherstripping ($40)
• Installed blackout curtains with white backing on all south-facing windows ($120)
• Added R-49 blown-in cellulose insulation to the attic ($800, partially covered by PECO rebate)
• Replaced incandescent bulbs with LEDs ($50)
• Set thermostat to 78°F and used ceiling fans ($0)

Result: Her August bill dropped to $145—a 48% reduction. She also noticed her home felt more comfortable with less stuffiness.

Example 2: The Pittsburgh Suburban Family

The Garcias, a family of four in a 2005 split-level home in Pittsburgh, had a central AC system but used it constantly because their home felt hot even at 74°F. They discovered their ductwork was leaking 30% of cooled air.

They:

• Hired a professional to seal and insulate ducts ($650, covered 50% by Duquesne Light rebate)
• Installed a smart thermostat (received $100 rebate)
• Planted three deciduous trees on the west side of the house
• Switched to using the microwave and air fryer instead of the oven during summer

Result: Their cooling costs dropped from $320 to $165 per month. The trees provided shade within two summers, and their home now stays cooler even during heat waves.

Example 3: The Philadelphia Apartment Renter

Jamal, a college student in a rented apartment in North Philly, couldn’t afford to upgrade the building’s window AC unit. But he used low-cost strategies:

• Used reflective window film on the west-facing window ($25)
• Placed a box fan in the window at night to pull in cool air
• Wore light cotton clothing and drank cold water
• Used a $30 plug-in energy monitor to realize his mini-fridge was cycling constantly—he unplugged it at night

Result: His summer electricity bill dropped from $110 to $65. He used the savings to buy a portable dehumidifier, which made the apartment feel noticeably more comfortable.

FAQs

What is the ideal thermostat setting for summer in Pennsylvania?

78°F is the recommended setting for comfort and efficiency. You can raise it to 82°F when you’re away. Use fans to feel cooler at higher temperatures.

Can I save money by turning off my AC when I leave the house?

Yes—but not completely. Turning it off entirely can cause indoor humidity to rise, making it harder to cool down when you return. Instead, raise the thermostat 7–10°F when you’re away. Smart thermostats automate this perfectly.

How often should I replace my AC filter?

Every 30–60 days during summer. If you have pets, allergies, or live near a busy road, change it every 20–30 days.

Are window AC units more efficient than central AC?

For cooling one or two rooms, yes. Window units use less energy than running a whole-house system. But for whole-home cooling, a modern central system with proper insulation and zoning is more efficient.

Do ceiling fans actually cool the air?

No. They create a wind-chill effect on skin, making you feel cooler. They don’t lower the room temperature. Turn them off when no one is in the room.

Can I get financial help for upgrading my AC in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Most utilities offer rebates for ENERGY STAR® units, smart thermostats, duct sealing, and insulation. Check pasaveenergy.com or your utility’s website.

Why is my AC running constantly even at 78°F?

This usually means your system is undersized, your home has air leaks, your filter is dirty, or your ducts are leaking. Schedule a professional inspection.

Should I close vents in unused rooms?

No. Closing vents increases pressure in your duct system, which can cause leaks and strain your blower motor. Use zoning or a multi-zone system instead.

How do I know if my home needs better insulation?

Signs include uneven temperatures between rooms, high energy bills, ice dams in winter, or dust near windows and doors. A professional energy audit will confirm.

Is it worth replacing old windows to save on AC costs?

If your windows are single-pane or drafty, yes. Double-pane Low-E windows can reduce cooling costs by 10–25%. Look for state and federal rebates to offset costs.

Conclusion

Reducing AC costs in Pennsylvania summer isn’t about sacrificing comfort—it’s about working smarter with the resources you already have. From sealing air leaks and upgrading insulation to using smart thermostats and strategic ventilation, every small change adds up. The most effective strategies require little to no upfront cost and deliver immediate results. For those ready to invest, long-term upgrades like insulation, window replacements, and efficient HVAC systems pay for themselves within a few years through energy savings and increased home value.

Pennsylvania’s climate is changing, with hotter, more humid summers becoming the norm. The choices you make today—whether it’s closing your blinds at noon or installing a smart thermostat—will shape your comfort, your wallet, and your environmental footprint for years to come. Start with one or two steps from this guide. Track your progress. Celebrate your savings. And remember: the most efficient cooling system is the one you don’t have to run at all.