Saving energy in spring and summer.

When spring arrives in the Capital Region, the weather can shift quickly – cool mornings, warm afternoons, and the kind of humidity that settles in by mid summer. Those changes can put extra demand on your cooling system and your energy budget. At John Ray & Sons, we’ve supported Capital Region households for generations, and we know that a few easy to change habits can help you stay comfortable while keeping energy use in check.
Below are 12 practical tips to help you prepare your home for the warmer months ahead.

  • Schedule your AC system tune up early

    • A spring tune up helps your AC run efficiently and reduces the chance of a breakdown during a Capital Region heatwave.

  • Replace or clean HVAC air filters

    • Pollen and dust build up quickly this time of year. Clean filters improve airflow and reduce energy use.

  • Seal air leaks around windows, doors and ductwork

    • Older homes in Albany, Troy, and surrounding towns often lose cooled air through small gaps. Sealing leaks will help keep already cooled air inside.

  • Adjust your thermostat for better efficiency

    • Raising the temperature a few degrees when you’re away or asleep can lead to noticeable savings.

  • Improve insulation in attics and exterior walls

    • Better insulation slows heat transfer, helping your home stay cooler without overworking your AC.

  • Choose ENERGY STAR® certified appliances

    • ENERGY STAR® models, from AC units to refrigerators, use less electricity and can lower long term energy costs.

  • Limit your “phantom” energy use

    • Many electronics draw power even when turned off. Unplug devices or use smart power strips to cut down on this hidden energy drain.

  • Cook with smaller appliances on hot days

    • Microwaves, toaster ovens, and air fryers generate less heat than a full oven, helping your AC work less.

  • Wash laundry in cold water

    • Cold water cycles clean effectively while using far less energy than hot water.

  • Clean refrigerator coils and check temperature settings

    • A clean, properly set fridge (37–40°F) and freezer (0°F) run more efficiently and use less electricity.

  • Use fans to help circulate cool air

    • Ceiling and portable fans help move cool air throughout your home, allowing you to raise your thermostat slightly.

  • Block direct sunlight during peak hours

    • Closing blinds or curtains on sun facing windows helps reduce heat gain and keeps rooms cooler naturally.

With these 12 simple steps, Capital Region homeowners can manage energy use more effectively while staying cool through spring and summer. And whenever you need expert maintenance, repairs, or system upgrades, your local John Ray & Sons team is here with dependable service backed by more than a century of local experience.

Sources:
ENERGY STAR® — energystar.gov
U.S. Department of Energy — energy.gov