Seasonal Energy Savings Calendar: Month-by-Month Tips (2026)

Professional maintenance improves efficiency by 5-15% and prevents costly summer breakdowns. Clean coils, replace filters, and check refrigerant levels.

Smart thermostats can reduce cooling costs by 10-23% by automatically adjusting temperatures when youre away. Look for ENERGY STAR certified models.

Use weatherstripping and caulk to prevent conditioned air loss. Focus on areas where you feel drafts or see light coming through gaps.

Properly functioning fans allow you to raise thermostat 4°F while maintaining comfort, reducing cooling costs by up to 40%.

LEDs use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last 25 times longer. Start with most-used fixtures for biggest impact.

Set AC to 78°F when home, 82°F when away. Each degree lower increases costs by 6-8%. Use fans to maintain comfort at higher temps.

Cellular shades, blackout curtains, or window film can block up to 77% of solar heat gain, reducing cooling loads significantly.

Run dishwashers, laundry, and other high-energy appliances before 3pm or after 8pm to avoid peak electricity rates.

Dirty filters force AC systems to work 15% harder. Check monthly and replace when visibly dirty or every 1-3 months depending on usage.

Cooking indoors adds significant heat load during summer. Outdoor cooking, cold meals, and slow cookers help keep your home cooler.

Clean furnace, inspect heat exchangers, and test safety controls. Well-maintained systems operate 5-10% more efficiently and last longer.

Proper attic insulation (R38-R60) can reduce heating costs by 10-50%. Fall installation prepares for winter while contractors have better availability.

Refresh weatherstripping annually and recaulk any cracked areas. Focus on north-facing windows that will face winter winds.

Storm windows can reduce heat loss by 25-50%. Plastic window film kits are a budget alternative that still provide 10-15% improvement.

Proper drainage prevents ice dams that can damage insulation and create air leaks. Clean before leaves fall for easier maintenance.

Set heat to 68°F during day, 60-65°F at night. Each degree lower saves 6-10% on heating costs. Use blankets, warm clothing, and slippers.

Heat only occupied rooms with efficient electric space heaters rather than heating entire home. Ensure heaters have safety features and proper clearance.

Open south-facing curtains during sunny days to capture free solar heating, then close them at night to insulate windows.

Ice dams indicate heat loss and can damage insulation. Remove snow from roof edges and improve attic ventilation if problems persist.

Bathroom and kitchen fans remove heated air. Use only when necessary and for shortest time needed to remove moisture or odors.