This Power-Up Challenge explained how cooling systems maintain comfortable indoor temperature and humidity levels, what influences cooling costs, and how technology upgrades and daily habits can reduce cooling energy consumption. While every home has different cooling needs, a few core principles apply across most households. The key takeaways below summarize important ideas to help you maintain a comfortable home while minimizing cooling costs.

• Cooling is one of the largest energy expenses in the average home, accounting for almost 20% of household energy costs in the US. Cooling needs vary considerably by climate and tend to be greatest in hot and humid regions.
• Cooling systems do more than lower indoor temperatures. Many air-conditioning systems also remove moisture from indoor air, helping maintain comfortable relative humidity levels. Effective cooling and humidity control are important for maintaining a comfortable and healthy indoor environment, particularly during periods of extreme heat.
• The amount of energy required for cooling depends on both the cooling system and the home itself. Insulation, air leakage, sun exposure, windows, thermostat settings, occupants, and heat generated by lighting, cooking, appliances, and electronics can all influence cooling demand.
• Efficient cooling technology can significantly reduce energy consumption. When replacing a cooling system, consider a properly sized, high-efficiency heat pump, which can provide both cooling and heating. Fans can further reduce cooling needs by helping occupants remain comfortable at higher indoor temperatures.
• Building envelope improvements can reduce the amount of heat that enters the home in the first place. Insulation, air sealing, efficient windows, shading, and improvements to ductwork can reduce cooling demand and help the cooling system operate more efficiently.
• Smart thermostats and daily habits can further reduce cooling costs. Automatically adjusting thermostat settings when occupants are sleeping or away, strategically using windows and window coverings, reducing heat generated inside the home, using kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans appropriately, and maintaining cooling equipment can all reduce unnecessary energy consumption.

These takeaways emphasize that reducing cooling costs is not about a single upgrade or behavior change. The greatest savings typically come from combining an efficient, properly sized cooling system with a well-insulated and air-sealed home, smart temperature controls, and thoughtful daily habits. By understanding how your home gains heat and how your cooling system removes it, you can reduce energy costs while maintaining a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.