Updated: 2026
Cooling your Rhode Island home shouldn’t feel like a second mortgage. With local energy rates on the rise, homeowners are often spending more than necessary just to stay comfortable.
At CARJON, we believe in an engineering-first approach rather than the common box-swapping model used by other private-equity-owned contractors. As a local, family-owned expert since 1989, we prioritize your home’s long-term performance and efficiency.
The True Cost of Inefficiency
Rhode Island energy rates make every efficiency upgrade a smart financial move for your household. You can significantly offset the cost of improvements through Rhode Island Energy rebates and specialized financing options.
10 Actionable Tips for a Cooler Home
Smart Thermostat Settings:
Program your thermostat to stay within a few degrees of your target temp to avoid high-energy recovery cycles.
Ceiling Fans:
Use fans to create a wind-chill effect, allowing you to raise the AC setting by 4 degrees without losing comfort.
Sealing & Insulation:
Prevent conditioned air loss by sealing gaps in your attic and walls. This holistic approach is key to system performance.
Air Filter Changes:
Check filters monthly. Clogged filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder and increasing wear.
Ductwork Integrity:
Leaky ducts can waste 20-30% of your cooling. Ensure your ductwork is sealed and professionally inspected.
Routine Maintenance:
Protect your investment with a Residential Maintenance Agreement to ensure peak capacity.
Off-Peak Usage:
Run heat-generating appliances like dishwashers or dryers during cooler evening hours to reduce grid stress.
Window Treatments:
Close blinds during the hottest part of the day to block solar heat gain through the glass.
Outdoor Unit Clearance:
Keep plants and debris at least 2-3 feet away from your condenser to allow for proper heat exhaust.
Regular Energy Audits:
Understand exactly where your home is losing energy before investing in new equipment.
The CARJON Difference: Engineering Over Guesswork
We don't believe in simply swapping boxes. Instead, our team uses Manual J load calculations to determine if your home is a prime candidate for a high-efficiency heat pump, or to ensure that any new HVAC equipment installation is perfectly sized for your home's specific layout.
Our long-tenured technicians are trained to recommend maintenance and low-cost fixes whenever possible. We are a family-owned business, not a corporate call center, and our heart is in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thermostat setting for summer?
Energy Star recommends 78°F when you are home, but the "best" setting is the highest one that keeps your family comfortable while reducing energy load.
Does closing vents actually save money?
No. Closing vents increases pressure in the ductwork, which can lead to leaks and cause the blower motor to fail prematurely. Keep your vents open for balanced airflow.
How much should I expect to spend on cooling in RI per month?
Costs vary by home size, but inefficient systems in RI often cost 20-40% more to operate than properly maintained, high-efficiency units.
When is it better to repair versus replace my AC system?
If your unit is over 10 years old and requires frequent repairs exceeding 50% of its value, a high-efficiency replacement often pays for itself through energy savings.
