Heating and cooling are usually the biggest line on a Midlands power bill, especially in July and August. The good news: you don't have to live in an uncomfortable house to spend less. Here's what actually makes a difference.

Start with your real usage

Compare your bill with the same month last year, then think about weather, rate changes, who's home and any new appliances. If usage jumped and nothing else changed — especially if the system is running longer, cycling oddly or making new noises — have it checked. A struggling system can quietly waste a lot of energy.

Use a comfortable thermostat schedule

There's no magic number. Small adjustments while you're away or asleep can reduce run time — just avoid settings that make the house unsafely hot or cold for anyone living there. Heat pump owners: big winter setbacks can kick on expensive auxiliary heat, so ask your technician what schedule works best for your system.

ENERGY STAR says certified smart thermostats save users about 8% on heating and cooling on average. Your results may be higher or lower, and not every thermostat works with every system, so check compatibility first.

Keep air moving

Check your filter according to the manufacturer's instructions, and keep vents and return grilles clear of furniture, rugs and curtains. Ceiling fans make occupied rooms feel cooler, which may let you nudge the thermostat up a degree or two — but turn them off when you leave the room.

Stop paying to cool the attic

Weatherstripping and caulk around accessible door and window gaps cut drafts, and shades or curtains block afternoon sun. In many Midlands homes, ductwork runs through a hot attic or crawl space — so leaky, crushed or disconnected ducts can waste air you've already paid to cool. A technician can check and repair ductwork. Never seal combustion-air or ventilation openings without professional guidance.

Keep your system tuned up

A spring and fall tune-up helps catch dirty coils, weak parts and airflow problems that make your system work harder. Coil, electrical, drain and refrigerant work is a job for a qualified technician. On Call's HVAC Maintenance plan schedules both visits for you.

Upgrading? Check local rebates

The federal heat pump tax credit ended for equipment installed after December 31, 2025. But if you're a Dominion Energy South Carolina residential electric customer, you may still qualify for utility rebates on ENERGY STAR heat pumps, central air conditioners and heat pump water heaters installed by a licensed contractor. Check Dominion's current rebates before you buy.

Your energy-saving checklist

  • Set a comfortable schedule for when you're home, away and asleep.

  • Check your filter regularly.

  • Keep vents and returns clear.

  • Use fans in occupied rooms.

  • Block afternoon sun and seal door and window gaps.

  • Get a spring and fall tune-up.

  • Have hot rooms or a sudden bill spike checked.

Bills creeping up or rooms that won't stay comfortable? On Call's NATE-certified technicians have served Columbia and the Midlands since 2011. Our residential diagnostic fee is $89, waived when you go ahead with the repair, and you'll get a firm price before any work begins. Call (803) 781-4357 or request service online.