Cool Efficiently: Energy‑Saving Tips for Mohave County Summers
Triple‑digit highs and 100 °F midnight lows make Mohave County one of the toughest places on air‑conditioners. But brutal heat ≠ brutal power bills. Combine the strategies below and most homes cut cooling costs by 15–25 % without sacrificing comfort.
1. Lock Out the Sun Before Noon
- Install reflective window film on east & west panes—blocks 78 % solar heat.
- Use light‑colored cellular shades; drop them by 9 a.m.
- Plant fast‑growing desert willow or palo verde on the west side for natural shade.
2. Embrace the “Fan + Higher Stat” Rule
Every degree above 75 °F saves roughly 3 % on cooling. A ceiling fan’s wind‑chill effect lets you bump the thermostat 2–3 ° higher while feeling the same comfort.
- Set fans to counter‑clockwise (summer mode).
- Turn fans off when you leave a room—fans cool people, not air.
3. Program the Perfect Desert Schedule
| Time‑Block | Set‑Point | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| 6 a.m. – 9 a.m. | 78 °F | Cheap kWh + mild outdoor temps let you pre‑cool slab & furniture. |
| 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. | 80–82 °F | Coast while sun is brutal but before MEC’s peak window. |
| 3 p.m. – 8 p.m. (peak) | 84 °F | Biggest savings when Mohave Electric’s rates spike. |
| 8 p.m. – 11 p.m. | 78 °F | Pre‑cool bedrooms for sleep comfort. |
| 11 p.m. – 6 a.m. | 80 °F | Outdoor temps drop; maintain with minimal compressor time. |
4. Seal the Sneaky Air Leaks
- Dust streaks around ceiling vents.
- One room bakes, the next freezes.
- AC runs yet SmartHub shows rising kWh.
Up to 40 % of cooled air can disappear through attic duct gaps. Professional duct sealing typically pays for itself in < 3 years.
5. Upgrade to a Two‑Stage or Inverter Heat‑Pump
- Variable‑speed compressors sip power at night & ramp during peak heat.
- Runs longer at lower RPM → better humidity control.
- MEC’s 2025 rebates up to $650 for ≥ 17 SEER2 systems.
DIY Weekend Action Plan
- Swap the filter (MERV 8 pleated).
- Hose‑rinse condenser fins (power off).
- Add reflective film to west windows.
- Program the schedule above into your smart stat.
- Book Horizon’s 21‑point tune‑up before the next heat wave.
Ready to Bank the Savings?
Our certified techs optimize airflow, dial in refrigerant charge, and show you hidden settings on most smart thermostats—all in one visit.
📞 Schedule Your Energy Audit – (928) 768‑3761
