How to Reduce AC Costs in Long Beach

Long Beach, California, is known for its sunny coastal climate, where summer temperatures regularly climb above 80°F and humidity lingers near the shore. For residents, keeping homes cool isn’t just about comfort—it’s a necessity. But with energy prices rising and utility bills becoming increasingly unpredictable, many homeowners are searching for practical, sustainable ways to reduce AC costs without sacrificing indoor comfort. Reducing air conditioning expenses in Long Beach requires more than just turning up the thermostat; it demands a strategic blend of maintenance, behavioral adjustments, smart technology, and energy-efficient upgrades. This comprehensive guide walks you through proven, actionable methods to significantly lower your cooling bills while extending the life of your system and minimizing environmental impact.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Schedule Professional AC Maintenance Twice a Year

One of the most overlooked yet impactful ways to reduce AC costs is consistent professional maintenance. In Long Beach’s coastal environment, salt air and airborne particles can accumulate inside your system, reducing airflow and forcing your unit to work harder. A clogged air filter, dirty evaporator coils, or low refrigerant levels can increase energy consumption by up to 15%.

Book a service appointment with a licensed HVAC technician in early spring (March–April) and again in early fall (September–October). During these visits, technicians should:

• Inspect and clean or replace air filters
• Check refrigerant levels and seal any leaks
• Clear debris from outdoor condenser units
• Lubricate moving parts
• Test thermostat calibration and electrical connections

Regular maintenance not only improves efficiency but also prevents costly breakdowns during peak summer months. Many Long Beach residents report a 10–20% drop in energy usage within one billing cycle after scheduling a tune-up.

2. Upgrade to a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Manual temperature adjustments are inefficient. A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day, automatically adjusting when you’re asleep or away. Smart thermostats take this further by learning your habits, connecting to Wi-Fi, and adjusting based on real-time weather data and occupancy sensors.

Popular models like the Nest Learning Thermostat or Ecobee SmartThermostat can reduce cooling costs by 10–25% annually. In Long Beach, where temperatures often peak between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., setting your thermostat to 78°F during the day and 82°F at night can make a significant difference without discomfort.

Pro Tip: Enable “Away Mode” when you leave for work or vacation. Most smart thermostats detect when no motion is sensed for over 30 minutes and automatically raise the temperature.

3. Seal Air Leaks and Improve Insulation

Up to 30% of cooled air can escape through poorly sealed windows, doors, ductwork, and attic gaps. Long Beach homes—especially those built before 2000—often suffer from aging weatherstripping and cracked caulk.

Conduct a DIY energy audit by:

• Running your hand along window and door frames on a windy day—feel for drafts
• Using a lit incense stick near suspected leaks; if the smoke wavers, air is escaping
• Inspecting attic insulation levels—aim for R-38 or higher in Southern California

Seal gaps with weatherstripping, door sweeps, and silicone caulk. For ductwork, use mastic sealant (not duct tape) to close leaks in basements, crawl spaces, or attics. Adding attic insulation—particularly reflective radiant barriers—can reduce heat gain by up to 30%, easing the burden on your AC unit.

4. Install Window Treatments That Block Heat

Windows are the primary source of solar heat gain. In Long Beach, south- and west-facing windows receive the most direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours.

Install:

• Blackout or thermal curtains with a white backing to reflect heat
• Low-emissivity (Low-E) window films that block UV and infrared rays while allowing visible light
• Exterior shades or awnings, especially on west-facing windows

Studies show that using blackout curtains can reduce heat gain by up to 45%. For a budget-friendly option, apply reflective window film—available at hardware stores—for under $50 per window. These simple changes can lower indoor temperatures by 5–10°F, reducing how often your AC cycles on.

5. Use Ceiling Fans Strategically

Ceiling fans don’t cool the air—they create a wind-chill effect on your skin. When used correctly, they allow you to raise your thermostat by 4°F without feeling warmer.

In Long Beach homes:

• Set fans to rotate counterclockwise in summer to push cool air downward
• Turn fans off when you leave the room—they only cool people, not spaces
• Install ENERGY STAR® certified fans, which use 60% less energy than older models

Pairing ceiling fans with a higher thermostat setting can cut cooling costs by up to 40% over the summer season. For best results, use fans in high-traffic areas like living rooms, bedrooms, and home offices.

6. Optimize Airflow by Keeping Vents Clear

Blocked or closed vents force your HVAC system to work harder to maintain pressure. Furniture, rugs, or stored items covering return or supply vents disrupt airflow, causing uneven cooling and increased energy use.

Ensure:

• All vents are unobstructed by furniture, curtains, or boxes
• Return air vents (usually larger, wall- or ceiling-mounted) are not covered
• Doors to cooled rooms remain open to allow air circulation

If you have a zoned system, avoid closing more than 20% of vents—this can create pressure imbalances and damage your blower motor over time.

7. Replace Old AC Units with ENERGY STAR® Certified Models

If your air conditioner is over 10–15 years old, it likely operates at 60–70% efficiency. Modern ENERGY STAR® certified units can reach SEER ratings of 20 or higher, compared to older models that may only be SEER 10–13.

Upgrading from a SEER 10 to a SEER 18 unit can reduce cooling costs by nearly 50%. Look for units with:

• Variable-speed compressors for consistent temperature control
• Two-stage cooling to avoid energy spikes
• Smart compatibility for remote monitoring

Long Beach residents may qualify for rebates through Southern California Edison (SCE) or the California Energy Commission for installing high-efficiency systems. Always request a Manual J load calculation before purchasing to ensure your new unit is properly sized for your home’s square footage and insulation levels.

8. Shift Energy Use to Off-Peak Hours

Southern California Edison implements time-of-use (TOU) pricing, where electricity costs more during peak demand hours (typically 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays). Running your AC during these hours can significantly inflate your bill.

Strategies to avoid peak pricing:

• Pre-cool your home in the early morning (before 4 p.m.) when rates are lower
• Use smart thermostats to automatically adjust temperature during peak hours
• Run dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers after 9 p.m.

Many Long Beach households save $50–$100 per month simply by shifting energy use to off-peak times. Check your utility’s TOU schedule online and adjust your routine accordingly.

9. Reduce Internal Heat Sources

Household appliances generate heat. In a small, well-insulated Long Beach home, even a single oven or incandescent bulb can raise indoor temperatures by 2–3°F.

Minimize heat generation by:

• Using a microwave, slow cooker, or outdoor grill instead of the oven during summer
• Switching to LED light bulbs—they produce 90% less heat than incandescent bulbs
• Unplugging electronics when not in use (phantom load generates heat and consumes energy)
• Running the dryer in the early morning or late evening

These small changes may seem insignificant, but collectively, they reduce the workload on your AC and contribute to lower energy bills.

10. Plant Shade Trees and Use Landscaping for Cooling

Strategic landscaping is one of the most cost-effective long-term solutions for reducing AC costs. Deciduous trees planted on the west and south sides of your home provide natural shade during summer and allow sunlight to warm your home in winter.

Recommended trees for Long Beach:

• California sycamore
• Live oak
• Chinese pistache
• Desert willow

Planting shrubs or installing trellises with climbing vines near west-facing walls can reduce wall surface temperatures by up to 40°F. Additionally, light-colored paving materials and reflective roof coatings help deflect heat from driveways and patios, reducing ambient heat around your home.

Best Practices

Set the Right Thermostat Temperature

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and awake. For every degree you raise the thermostat above 78°F, you save 3–5% on cooling costs. In Long Beach, where nights are mild, 82°F is comfortable for sleeping—especially with ceiling fans running.

Avoid Frequent Thermostat Adjustments

Constantly adjusting the temperature causes your AC to cycle on and off repeatedly, which consumes more energy than maintaining a steady setting. Use your smart thermostat’s scheduling feature instead of manual changes.

Keep Filters Clean

Replace or clean air filters every 30–60 days during peak season. A dirty filter can reduce airflow by up to 50%, forcing your system to run longer. Consider buying 3-month filters if you have pets or live near the ocean, where salt and dust accumulate faster.

Use Natural Ventilation Wisely

On cooler evenings (typically after 8 p.m. in Long Beach), open windows on opposite sides of your home to create cross-ventilation. Use window fans to exhaust hot air and pull in cooler air from the ocean breeze. Close windows and blinds before sunrise to lock in the cool air.

Monitor Your Energy Usage

Use your utility provider’s online portal or a smart plug energy monitor to track real-time AC consumption. Many homeowners are shocked to discover their AC is running longer than expected due to a malfunctioning thermostat or leaky ducts.

Consider a Whole-House Fan

For homes with attics, installing a whole-house fan can be a game-changer. These fans pull cooler night air through open windows and exhaust hot air through the attic. They use 90% less energy than AC units and are ideal for Long Beach’s mild nighttime temperatures. Pair with attic ventilation for maximum efficiency.

Insulate Your Water Heater and Pipes

While not directly related to cooling, insulating your water heater and hot water pipes reduces the heat radiating into your home. This indirectly lowers the cooling load on your AC system, especially in enclosed utility rooms.

Tools and Resources

Energy Efficiency Programs in Long Beach

Long Beach residents have access to several state and utility-backed programs designed to reduce energy costs:

• Southern California Edison (SCE) Home Energy Assistance Program – Offers rebates for ENERGY STAR® appliances, smart thermostats, and attic insulation.
• California Energy Commission’s Home Energy Efficiency Rebates – Provides up to $1,000 for high-efficiency AC installations.
• Long Beach Green Building Program – Offers free energy audits and guidance on sustainable upgrades.

Visit sce.com/residential/rebates and energy.ca.gov/residential-rebates to check eligibility and apply.

Recommended Tools

Use these tools to monitor and optimize your cooling efficiency:

• Thermostat Apps – Nest, Ecobee, and Honeywell Home apps allow remote control and usage analytics.
• Smart Plugs – Use with window fans or dehumidifiers to schedule operation during off-peak hours.
• Thermal Imaging Camera (Optional) – A $200 Flir One attachment for smartphones can detect hidden air leaks and insulation gaps.
• Humidity Meter – Maintain indoor humidity between 40–50% for optimal comfort; high humidity makes you feel hotter, causing you to lower the thermostat unnecessarily.

Free DIY Resources

Take advantage of these free resources:

• DOE’s Home Energy Saver Tool – Input your home details to get personalized efficiency tips: hes.lbl.gov
• Energy Star’s Home Advisor – Recommends upgrades based on your climate zone: energystar.gov/home_advisor
• Long Beach Public Library – Offers free energy audit kits and workshops on sustainable living.

Real Examples

Case Study 1: The Garcia Family – Long Beach Shoreline

The Garcias live in a 1,800-square-foot home built in 1985 near the beach. Their monthly AC bill averaged $220 in summer. After implementing the following changes over six months:

• Installed a Nest thermostat ($250)
• Sealed ductwork and added R-38 attic insulation ($800, partially rebated)
• Applied Low-E window film to 12 windows ($150)
• Planted two mature California sycamores on the west side ($300)
• Switched to LED lighting and unplugged unused electronics

They reduced their average summer AC bill to $95—a 57% decrease. The payback period for their upgrades was under two years.

Case Study 2: The Chen Apartment – Downtown Long Beach

Chen lives in a 750-square-foot apartment on the 10th floor with large west-facing windows. Unable to install permanent upgrades, they used low-cost solutions:

• Blackout curtains ($60)
• Portable ceiling fan ($40)
• Smart plug to turn on fan only during off-peak hours ($25)
• Thermostat set to 78°F with a 2-hour pre-cooling routine

Chen’s monthly bill dropped from $140 to $65. They also reported improved sleep quality due to reduced heat buildup.

Case Study 3: The Ramirez Home – West Long Beach

The Ramirezes replaced their 16-year-old AC unit (SEER 10) with a 20 SEER variable-speed system. They also installed a whole-house fan and added reflective roofing material.

Before: $280/month in July

After: $110/month in July

With a $1,200 utility rebate and $500 state incentive, their net investment was $3,500. They estimate full payback in under 3.5 years, with annual savings of $2,000+.

FAQs

How much can I realistically save on my AC bill in Long Beach?

Most households save between 20% and 50% annually by combining thermostat adjustments, sealing leaks, and performing maintenance. High-efficiency upgrades can push savings to 60% or more, especially if replacing an old unit.

Is it cheaper to leave the AC on all day or turn it off when I’m away?

It’s more efficient to raise the temperature by 7–10°F when you’re away, rather than turning it off completely. Turning it off causes your home to heat up significantly, requiring more energy to cool back down. A smart thermostat can do this automatically.

Do ceiling fans actually cool the room?

No. Ceiling fans cool people by moving air across the skin, creating a wind-chill effect. They do not lower the air temperature. Always turn them off when no one is in the room.

How often should I replace my air filter?

Every 30–60 days during peak cooling season. If you have pets, allergies, or live near the ocean, replace monthly. A dirty filter is one of the top causes of increased energy use.

Can I get financial help to upgrade my AC system in Long Beach?

Yes. Southern California Edison, the California Energy Commission, and the City of Long Beach offer rebates and incentives for ENERGY STAR® certified systems, insulation, and smart thermostats. Check their websites for current programs.

Why is my AC running constantly even on mild days?

This usually indicates a problem: low refrigerant, a dirty air filter, blocked vents, a malfunctioning thermostat, or insufficient insulation. Schedule a professional diagnostic to identify the root cause.

Does closing vents in unused rooms save money?

Not usually. Closing too many vents increases pressure in your duct system, forcing your blower motor to work harder. This can lead to leaks and premature system failure. Keep vents open and use zoning or a smart thermostat instead.

Is it worth installing a whole-house fan in Long Beach?

Yes. With mild evenings and low humidity, whole-house fans are highly effective. They can replace AC use for 60–70% of summer nights and cost less than $1,000 to install.

What’s the best thermostat setting for sleeping in Long Beach?

82°F is ideal for most people when paired with a ceiling fan. Your body naturally cools during sleep, so you don’t need a chilly bedroom. Use breathable cotton bedding to enhance comfort.

How do I know if my AC is the right size for my home?

An oversized unit cools too quickly without removing enough humidity, leading to clammy air. An undersized unit runs constantly. Only a professional HVAC technician can perform a Manual J load calculation to determine the correct size.

Conclusion

Reducing AC costs in Long Beach is not about living in discomfort—it’s about working smarter with the resources you have. By combining routine maintenance, smart technology, strategic home improvements, and energy-conscious habits, you can slash your cooling bills by 30–60% while enhancing your home’s comfort and sustainability.

The coastal climate of Long Beach presents unique challenges—salt air, high humidity, and intense afternoon sun—but it also offers opportunities: gentle ocean breezes, abundant sunshine for solar potential, and access to generous energy efficiency programs. Whether you’re renting a downtown apartment or owning a century-old bungalow, every homeowner can implement at least three of the strategies outlined in this guide.

Start small: replace your air filter, install a programmable thermostat, and seal your windows. Then, as your budget allows, invest in insulation, window films, or a high-efficiency AC unit. The savings compound over time, and the environmental benefit is undeniable.

Remember, energy efficiency isn’t a one-time project—it’s an ongoing practice. Stay informed, monitor your usage, and take advantage of local rebates. With the right approach, your Long Beach home can stay cool, comfortable, and cost-effective—season after season.