CAN SLEEPING WITH THE WINDOWS OPEN IN SUMMER SAVE ENERGY?

Admin • April 14, 2022

White Bed and Lamp — Colorado Springs, CO — Home Heating Service, Inc.

Ensuring your home stays cool throughout the summer is obviously important. The only issue is that running your air conditioning all day and night can quickly add up to huge energy costs. Therefore, many people attempt to reduce their cooling costs by turning off their AC at night and sleeping with the windows open instead. While this may sound good in practice, the reality is that it may not make nearly as big of a difference as you might expect depending on the climate where you live. To understand why let’s look at how much energy an air conditioner typically uses at night and the impact of temperature and climate on energy use.

HOW MUCH ENERGY DOES AN AC USE AT NIGHT?

As you might imagine, air conditioners tend to use much less energy at night than they do during the day. Your air conditioner will obviously have to run much less frequently during the cooler evening than it does during the hottest parts of the afternoon and evening. On average, approximately two-thirds of an air conditioner’s daily energy usage occurs between noon and midnight, with the remaining one-third being used between midnight and noon.

On the face of things, this would seem to indicate that turning off your air conditioning at night could potentially reduce your energy usage by somewhere around 33%. However, this isn’t always the case as outdoor temperatures and high humidity levels can drastically reduce this number in some cases. In fact, for people who live in a hotter, more humid climate, opening windows at night will usually result in decreased comfort without doing much to reduce your energy costs.

TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY FACTORS

Most studies that have been done on this subject have focused on hot, humid climates like those found in the southern U.S. In one such study, researchers showed that turning off the air conditioner and opening windows at night resulted in an approximately 30% decrease in energy consumption. However, because the open windows allowed excess heat and humidity to get inside the home, daytime energy consumption rose by around 21%. The reason is that the air conditioner then had to work much harder when it was turned back on to eliminate the excess humidity from the home and bring the temperature back down. The humidity was an especially big factor since air conditioners don’t function nearly as efficiently in more humid conditions.

Turning off your AC at night will always save you at least some money. Nevertheless, the two most important factors are how warm or cool the nighttime temperatures are and how humid the air is. If the nighttime temperatures are below the temperature, you have your thermostat set to, opening your windows at night instead of using your AC is always a smart option.

This is great news for people in Colorado Springs since the average nighttime temperatures even during the hottest months of the year are still usually in the 50s. This means that opening your windows at night will usually cool off your house even more than if you left your AC running all night. As a result, your air conditioner generally won’t have to turn on again until later in the day when the temperature starts to heat up again.

Colorado Springs is categorized as an alpine desert climate, which means you generally will never have to worry about excess humidity. For these reasons, turning off the AC at night is something you may want to consider if you’re looking for ways to reduce your energy bills. People who suffer from allergies or other respiratory issues are probably better off leaving the windows closed throughout the summer. Opening your windows does replenish the fresh air inside your house and can reduce the concentration of airborne pollutants. However, it also enables pollen, mold spores, and other allergens to get inside the home and potentially cause or worsen your allergy symptoms.

PROFESSIONAL HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING SERVICES

With more than 30 years of experience serving customers in Colorado Springs and the surrounding area, Home Heating Service, Inc. is the one to trust for all your home’s heating and cooling needs. Our NATE-certified HVAC technicians can service and repair all types of heating and cooling equipment or install any new equipment you may need. We also specialize in indoor air quality, gas fireplaces, insulation and attic sealing, home energy audits, and much more. Contact us today if you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment.

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7 Simple Habits That Can Extend Your HVAC System’s Life by 5 Years

By Sydney Bagby • September 8, 2025

Picture this: It’s the coldest night of the year in Colorado Springs, the kind of evening that calls for soft blankets, hot cocoa, and a cozy home—when suddenly, your furnace quits. If you’ve ever felt the sting of an unexpected HVAC breakdown, you know not just the discomfort, but the worry about repairs, costs, and who you can trust to help. Here’s the good news: With just a handful of simple, proactive habits, you can help your HVAC system run more reliably for years to come—potentially extending its life by five years or more. No technical skills required. Just a little bit of neighborly advice and a regular routine can keep your family comfortable, save money, and bring real peace of mind. At Home Heating Service, we believe every homeowner deserves honest, straightforward guidance—never pressure. That’s why we’ve put together the essential habits that every Colorado Springs resident can practice to protect their investment and steer clear of costly surprises. Ready to take control of your comfort? Let’s jump into the seven habits that can add years of life—and peace—to your home’s most important system. The Real Cost of Neglecting Your HVAC System in Colorado Springs When it comes to HVAC systems, a little neglect can add up—fast. According to industry data, the average furnace repair in Colorado Springs ranges from $200 to $800, and replacing a system can easily top $5,000. But the highest cost might be the comfort you lose when your home goes cold or hot at the worst moment. Many homeowners tell us their biggest worry isn’t just the bill—it’s the fear of being caught off guard or having to scramble to find a trustworthy pro. Here’s the truth: most breakdowns happen not because systems are old, but because a few small, preventable issues are left unchecked. The good news? Staying ahead is easier than you think. Habit #1 – Change Your Air Filter Regularly A clean filter is your HVAC’s secret weapon. When filters are clogged, your system works harder, burns more energy, and wears out faster. In Colorado’s dusty, dry climate, check your filter every month—especially during peak heating and cooling seasons. Most homes do best with a change every 1–3 months. Quick test: Hold the filter up to the light—if you can’t see through, it’s time for a new one. Habit #2 – Keep Vents & Registers Clear Ever moved a sofa and noticed the vent beneath it was blocked? Obstructed vents force your system to work overtime and can shorten its life by years. Once per season, do a sweep of your home: move furniture and drapes, check for toys or debris, and vacuum around the registers. Proper airflow keeps every room comfortable and your system humming along, stress-free. Habit #3 – Schedule Seasonal HVAC Maintenance in Colorado Springs Preventative care is powerful. Having your system checked by a trusted professional each spring (for cooling) and fall (for heating) can catch little issues before they grow into big, expensive problems. Professional maintenance includes cleaning burners, inspecting electrical connections, lubricating moving parts, and running safety checks—all things that keep your system efficient, safe, and long-lived. Comfort Club benefit: Two included tune-ups each year, priority scheduling, and a technician who treats your home like their own. Habit #4 – Monitor and Adjust Your Thermostat Smartly Constantly raising and lowering the temperature wears out your system’s components and spikes your utility bill. Instead, set a comfortable range—68–72°F in winter, 75–78°F in summer—and use a programmable or smart thermostat to keep temperatures steady when you’re away or asleep. If you’re not sure how to set up your thermostat for maximum comfort and savings, ask your Home Heating Service tech at your next visit. Habit #5 – Address Unusual Noises or Smells Promptly If your system rattles, bangs, or starts to smell odd (think burning, musty, or chemical odors), don’t ignore it. These can be early signs of mechanical problems, electrical issues, or leaks. Catching and fixing these early—with a quick call to your trusted local technician—can prevent major, costly repairs and keep you safe. Comfort Club priority: Members get front-of-the-line scheduling when issues pop up. Habit #6 – Keep Outdoor Units Clean and Unobstructed Your outdoor condenser (AC) or heat pump needs space to “breathe.” If it gets clogged with leaves, grass, or snow, the system strains and wears out quickly. Every month, glance outside: clear away debris, trim back bushes by at least two feet, and make sure gutters aren’t dripping on the unit. Seasonal tip: In spring and fall, do a deeper clean and check drainage to prevent hidden blockages. Habit #7 – Invest in Professional Duct Cleaning & Sealing Dirty or leaky air ducts can rob your system of efficiency and lead to wear-and-tear that shortens its life. If you’ve noticed uneven heating, excess dust, or higher bills, it may be time for duct cleaning or sealing. Signs you need service: visible dust blowing from vents, odd odors, or rooms that never seem comfortable. Comfort Club advantage: Ask about annual duct checks and members-only pricing. Common Pitfalls—What Shortens HVAC System Life? Even the best intentions can be undone by a few common habits. For example: Skipping regular filter changes Ignoring annual tune-ups Blocking vents with furniture or decor Attempting risky DIY repairs Postponing small fixes until they become big ones Avoid these “don’ts” and your HVAC system will thank you with years of steady service. How Comfort Club Simplifies HVAC Maintenance in Colorado Springs Every tip above is easier—often worry-free—with Comfort Club. Members get: Automatic reminders for tune-ups Two included professional maintenance visits each year Priority scheduling (no waiting when you need help most) Honest, no-pressure advice from trusted local technicians Special discounts on repairs and services Here’s what Carol, a long-time Comfort Club member, shared: “I used to worry every season that something would go wrong with our furnace. Now, I know Home Heating Service has us covered—and I can actually relax.” FAQs Q: How often should I really change my air filter? A: Every 1–3 months—more often during heavy use or if you have pets. Q: Does regular maintenance really make a difference? A: Absolutely. Our technicians catch small issues before they become costly, and well-maintained systems run longer and more efficiently. Recap The 7 simple habits: Change your air filter regularly Keep vents and registers clear Schedule seasonal professional maintenance Use your thermostat smartly Address unusual noises or smells fast Keep outdoor units clean and unobstructed Invest in professional duct cleaning and sealing Start with one—then make them all part of your routine. Small habits lead to big comfort and real peace of mind. Ready to make comfort worry-free for years to come? ✅ [Join Comfort Club today] for priority service, expert care, and neighborly support since 1988. Questions? Our team is just a call or click away—neighbors helping neighbors, since 1988.