Why Your AC Might Be Hiking Up Your Energy Bill

It’s the height of summer, and you’re doing everything you can to stay cool. You’ve got the fans going, the blinds closed, and the AC cranked up. But when your energy bill arrives, you’re in for a shock. It’s through the roof! What gives? You may not realize it, but your air conditioner (AC) could be the culprit behind your skyrocketing energy bills.

The AC is one of the most energy-consuming appliances in a household, especially during the summer months. It works overtime to keep your home cool and comfortable. However, various AC issues can lead to an increase in energy consumption, and consequently, a higher energy bill.

AC Issues Causing High Energy Bills

Your AC could be hiking up your energy bill for several reasons. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common AC issues causing high energy bills.

Dirty or Clogged Filters

The air filters in your AC unit trap dust, dirt, and other airborne particles. Over time, these filters can become clogged, restricting airflow and forcing your AC to work harder to cool your home. The harder your AC works, the more energy it consumes.

Leaking Ducts

The ductwork in your home distributes cooled air from your AC to different rooms. However, if there are leaks in the ductwork, cooled air can escape, causing your AC to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This increased workload leads to higher energy consumption and, you guessed it, a higher energy bill.

 

Incorrect Thermostat Settings

Your thermostat controls the temperature in your home by regulating the AC’s operation. If your thermostat settings are incorrect, your AC may be running unnecessarily, consuming more energy than needed. For example, setting your thermostat too low can cause your AC to run continuously, even when your home is already at a comfortable temperature.

Old or Outdated AC Unit

Older AC units are generally less energy-efficient compared to newer models. If your AC unit is more than 10 years old, it may be consuming more energy than necessary to cool your home. Additionally, older units may have worn-out parts that can cause the unit to work harder, leading to higher energy consumption.

Lack of Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure your AC runs efficiently. Over time, various components of your AC unit can wear out or become less effective. Without regular maintenance, these issues can go unnoticed, causing your AC to work harder and consume more energy.

Tips for Reducing Energy Consumption

Now that we know the common culprits behind high energy bills let’s look at some ways to reduce energy consumption and save on your energy bill.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure your AC runs efficiently. A professional AC technician can inspect your air conditioning unit, clean or replace filters, check for leaks in the ductwork, and address any other issues that may be affecting its performance. Regular maintenance can help prevent many AC issues that cause high energy consumption, saving you money in the long run.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day. For example, you can set a higher temperature when you’re not at home and a lower temperature when you’re at home. This can help reduce unnecessary AC operation, saving energy and money.

Replace Old AC Unit

If your AC unit is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider replacing it with a newer, energy-efficient model. Newer models are designed to consume less energy while providing the same level of cooling. Additionally, many newer models come with energy-saving features such as variable-speed fans and programmable thermostats.

Seal Leaking Ducts

Sealing leaking ducts can help prevent cooled air from escaping, reducing the workload on your AC unit. You can seal small leaks with mastic tape or foil tape. However, for larger leaks or if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, it’s best to hire a professional HVAC technician.

While it’s tempting to blame your high energy bill on your energy provider, your AC might be the real culprit. Dirty or clogged filters, leaking ducts, incorrect thermostat settings, an old or outdated AC unit, and lack of maintenance are all common AC issues causing high energy bills. Fortunately, with regular maintenance, using a programmable thermostat, replacing an old AC unit, sealing leaking ducts, and proper roofing you can reduce energy consumption and save on your energy bill.

Don’t let your AC hike up your energy bill! Schedule a professional AC maintenance check today to ensure your AC is running efficiently and not causing high energy bills.

Daigle A/C and Heating handles residential, light commercial to full commercial air-conditioning and heating services as well as AC repairs, services and replaces all brands of air-conditioning and heating equipment. We are proud to provide personalized one-on-one service, meetings, and inspections for all of our customers.

For all your air conditioning needs from minor AC repairs to complete AC replacement. We offer same-day service if possible and always upfront, straight forward pricing. If you’re considering replacing your current air conditioner, it’s probably fairly old already. In the last decade, great strides have been made in HVAC system efficiency, allowing for more advanced, increasingly efficient units that can cool your home better for less money. They do cost a bit more upfront to install, but your monthly cooling bills will immediately reward you.

Call (504) 738-2534 today.