10 Tips To Cut Your Cooling Costs This Season

According to the U.S. Department of Energy 40 percent of energy consumed by Chicago area homes is used for heating and cooling. To reduce these costs as much as possible we have put together a few tips on you can use to significantly decrease the amount that you spend to keep your home cool and more comfortable.

Seal Air Leaks - Locate air leaks around windows, doors and outlets by burning a match stick while running the home's fans. Weather-stripping is a simple and affordable fix that can cut up to 15 percent or more off cooling costs.
Switch to CFL or LED Lights - Conventional incandescent bulbs emit a lot of heat. You will keep your home cooler with energy-efficient light bulbs while saving electricity over the long term.
Use Curtains and Blinds - Keep south- and west-facing curtains and blinds closed on hot days and opened during cool evenings.
Adjust Your Laundry Habits - Do your laundry in the evening when it's cooler and wash clothes in cold water to help keep the home cooler. Hang clothes outside to dry on warm days.
Unplug Electronics - TVs, DVD players, and computers that are turned off can still suck power out of outlets. Unplug electronics that are not in use. Use smart strips to make this easier.
Program Your Thermostat - Program the thermostat to turn air conditioning off when the household is away to help save up to 10 percent on your cooling costs.
Move the Thermostat - Make sure that the thermostat is located on an inside wall, away from drafts.
Insulate Attic Access Points - Insulated covers are available for attic doors, hatches and pull-down stairs. Adequate insulation can cut heating and cooling cuts by 10 percent or more.
Ventilate Attics - Ventilation fans help prevent heat from building up in the attic.
Check the Ducts - Sealing and insulating the home's duct distribution system enhances the cooling system's efficiency.
Schedule Maintenance - Arrange for regular maintenance to keep your air-conditioning system operating at peak efficiency.

ABC Plumbing Locations

Arlington Heights, IL

220 W Campus Dr
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Phone: (888) 991-3942

Largo, FL

11701 S Belcher Rd Suite 127
Largo, FL 33773
Phone: (888) 465-9799

Downers Grove, IL

1001 Ogden Ave LL4
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Phone: (888) 412-3566

Tampa, FL

4326 W El Prado Blvd Suite 7
Tampa, FL 33629
Phone: (888) 594-9030

Evanston, IL

828 Davis St UNIT 205
Evanston, IL 60201
Phone: (888) 868-9369

Our Blog

VIEW ALL BLOGS

Glenview, IL Leak Detection and Repair – Fast Plumbing

A slab leak can cause serious damage to your home's foundation, flooring, and plumbing system if left untreated. This guide explains the most common warning signs of a slab leak, how professional plumbers use advanced technology to pinpoint hidden leaks with minimal disruption, and the repair options available for Chicagoland homeowners. Learn what steps to take if you suspect a slab leak and how early detection can help prevent costly repairs and water damage.

Belleair Beach, FL Emergency Electrical Services: 7 Safety Signs

Electrical problems can quickly become serious safety hazards, especially during Tampa Bay's storm season. This guide covers the seven warning signs that require an emergency electrician, including burning smells, tripped breakers, flickering lights, sparking panels, and water-damaged electrical systems. Learn what you can safely do before help arrives, when to call for immediate service, and how regular inspections and timely repairs can help protect your home and family from electrical emergencies.
READ MORE
Lutz, FL Electrical Safety Inspections: Panel Checklist

Your electrical panel is the heart of your home's electrical system, and regular inspections can help prevent safety hazards, power outages, and costly repairs. This guide explains what licensed electricians check during a professional electrical panel inspection, common warning signs of electrical problems, and simple safety checks homeowners can perform without opening the panel. Learn how routine inspections, surge protection, and timely upgrades can keep your Tampa home safe, reliable, and ready for today's electrical demands.
READ MORE
Antioch, IL AC Repair: Prevent Compressor Damage

Your AC compressor is the heart of your cooling system—and one of the most expensive components to replace. This guide shares simple maintenance tips Chicagoland homeowners can follow to help prevent compressor damage, improve energy efficiency, and extend the life of their air conditioner. Learn how clean coils, proper airflow, routine tune-ups, and early warning signs can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your home comfortable all summer long.
READ MORE