When temperatures soar in Albuquerque, your air conditioner becomes your best friend—but it can also become your biggest energy hog. If your electric bill spikes every summer, your AC may be working harder than it needs to. The good news? With a few smart tweaks and routine maintenance, you can improve your AC efficiency and keep your utility bills in check.
Here are practical, proven ways to boost your system's performance and stay cool without draining your wallet:
Your cooling system needs regular tune-ups to operate at peak performance. Dusty coils, clogged filters, and low refrigerant levels can make your AC work overtime, using more energy for less cooling power. A professional HVAC inspection ensures your system is clean, optimized, and ready for the season ahead.
New Mexico Tip: HVAC experts recommend three checkups a year in our climate—one in the spring to prep your AC, one mid-summer to catch any wear and tear from running full-time, and one in the fall to ensure your heating system is ready for cooler months. These seasonal tune-ups help you avoid breakdowns, extend equipment life, and maximize efficiency year-round.
Dirty air filters restrict airflow and force your system to work harder—leading to higher energy bills and unnecessary wear. Replacing your filters every 30 days during the cooling season helps your AC run more efficiently and improves your indoor air quality.
Make It Easy: You can now order your HVAC filters online directly from Number One’s shop. Choose the right size, and we’ll deliver them straight to your door—no need to remember or run to the store.
Bonus: If you suffer from allergies or have pets, frequent filter changes can also help reduce indoor allergens and dust buildup.
Traditional thermostats lack the precision of today’s smart options. Smart thermostats learn your habits, adjust automatically, and help you cool your home only when necessary. You can control temperatures remotely from your phone, set schedules, and even track energy use.
Albuquerque Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F when you're home and 85°F when you're away for maximum savings.
Ceiling fans don’t lower the temperature, but they make you feel cooler by circulating air. That means you can raise the thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.
Money Saver: For every degree you raise your thermostat, you can reduce cooling costs by up to 3%.
Hot air sneaking in through cracks and poor insulation forces your AC to work harder. Seal leaks around doors, windows, and ducts, and consider adding insulation to your attic or walls to keep the cool air in and the hot air out.
Direct sunlight streaming through windows heats up your home fast. Use blackout curtains, blinds, or reflective window film to reduce solar heat gain during the hottest parts of the day.
Cooking, using the dryer, or running the dishwasher can raise your indoor temperature. Try to limit these activities to early mornings or late evenings when it's cooler.
If your system is more than 10–15 years old, it may be time for a high-efficiency upgrade. Newer models use significantly less energy and may qualify for rebates or tax incentives.
If you only use certain rooms regularly, consider ductless mini-split systems or zoning solutions. These allow you to cool specific areas without wasting energy on unused spaces.
Want to know exactly where you're wasting energy? A home energy audit can identify problem areas and help you create a customized plan for savings.
A more efficient AC system isn’t just good for your budget—it’s better for the environment and your long-term comfort. With some strategic upgrades and regular care, your Albuquerque home can stay cool all summer long—without the sticker shock when the utility bill arrives.
Call today for service from the trusted HVAC experts at Number One Plumbing, A/C, Solar & Electric. We’ll help you beat the heat—and your electric bill.
Experts are now recommending three times a year—spring, mid-summer, and fall—to ensure your AC and heating systems run efficiently all year long.
Yes. Smart thermostats help optimize temperature settings and reduce unnecessary AC use, leading to significant energy savings over time.
In New Mexico's climate, ACs run constantly in summer. A mid-season check helps catch wear and tear before it causes breakdowns.
Check your filters monthly. If they appear dirty or clogged, replace them to improve airflow and system efficiency.
78°F when home and 85°F when away is recommended for balancing comfort and savings.
Yes. Ceiling fans improve air circulation, making you feel cooler and allowing you to raise the thermostat without sacrificing comfort.
It prevents cool air from escaping and hot air from entering, which reduces your AC’s workload and energy usage.
If your AC is 12–15 years old, upgrading to a high-efficiency unit can significantly lower energy costs and improve cooling performance.
