3 Key Ways to Reduce Cooling Costs

August 11, 2022

When the summer months get hot and you crank up the air conditioner, you may also experience your utility bill creeping up to higher numbers. However, there are ways you can avoid dealing with high cooling costs without suffering in the heat. Keep reading to learn the best ways to lower your AC bill and save money this summer.

How to Lower Your AC Bill

1. Get Your Air Conditioning System Serviced

Have a local HVAC contractor take a look at your air conditioner to ensure it is running efficiently. The better shape your AC system is in, the less energy it will use to cool your home. The contractor can replace the air filter, clean the coils, ensure the refrigerant is at the correct levels, and check voltage connections. Taking good care of your AC system makes it more likely that it will run well without racking up the utility bill.

2. Adjust the Thermostat

Simply paying more attention to the set temperature on your thermostat can make a huge difference in the amount of energy your home uses. Keep the thermostat set to a moderate temperature, and don’t adjust it constantly. Your cooling system is less likely to overwork if it isn’t always trying to match a new temperature. Remember to switch it off when you leave the house for long periods of time.

3. Close the Curtains

When the sunlight is beating down through your windows, your house can act like a greenhouse, preserving all the heat inside. To avoid this, simply keep the curtains closed when the sun is shining directly in. Insulated or reflective shades can also help keep heat from coming inside.

If you are looking for air conditioner maintenance or repair, reach out to Alpine Heating & Cooling in Wooster, OH. We are an HVAC contractor that is locally owned and operated and has been servicing residential and commercial clients since 1993. Whether you need AC repairs, heating repairs, or a new thermostat, our well-trained service technicians will get your home back to a comfortable temperature in no time. Call (330) 263-0013 to speak with a team member or visit us online to learn more about our services.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Do You Need to Replace Your AC Because of New Refrigerant Rules?

May 20, 2026

If you’ve heard people talking about “new refrigerant rules” for air conditioners and heat pumps, you’re not alone. Homeowners are wondering if their current AC system is suddenly outdated or impossible to repair. The simple answer is no — you do not need to replace your air conditioner just because refrigerant rules have changed. What Changed With HVAC Refrigerants? The HVAC industry is moving away from higher-GWP refrigerants, including R-410A, and toward newer refrigerants with lower environmental impact. Under the EPA’s refrigerant transition rules, many new residential air conditioners and heat pumps manufactured after January 1, 2025 must use lower-GWP refrigerants. Existing systems can still be serviced, and parts used to repair existing systems are not subject to the same restrictions as new equipment. For homeowners, that means your current air conditioner or heat pump does not automatically need replaced. Can My Current AC Still Be Repaired? Yes. If your system uses R-410A, it can still be serviced. The bigger question is whether a repair makes financial sense. As older refrigerants become less common over time, certain repairs — especially refrigerant leak repairs — may become more expensive. That does not mean every older system should be replaced, but it does make the repair-versus-replace decision more important. When Should You Consider Replacing Your AC? You may want to consider replacement if: -Your system is over 10–15 years old -You are facing a major repair -Your AC has a refrigerant leak -Your energy bills keep climbing -Your home has uneven temperatures -Your system uses older equipment that is no longer under warranty If your system is newer, running well, and only needs a minor repair, replacement may not be necessary. Don’t Panic — Get Honest Advice The new refrigerant rules are a real change in the HVAC industry, but they should not be used to scare homeowners into replacing equipment before they need to. At Alpine Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Refrigeration, we help homeowners understand their options clearly. Whether your system needs a simple repair, a refrigerant leak check, or a full replacement estimate, our goal is to give you honest information so you can make the best decision for your home. Have Questions About Your AC System? If you’re unsure whether to repair or replace your air conditioner, contact Alpine today. Our team can inspect your system, explain your options, and help you prepare for the future of home comfort. 📞 Schedule a Comfort Evaluation OFFICES Wooster: (330) 263.0013 Ashland: (419) 289.1616 Mt. Eaton (330) 359.7114 Email: sales@alpine-services.com. Website: https://www.alpine-services.com/contact