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We’ve all been there—opening that electric bill, only to wonder why the numbers keep increasing, especially during summer. If your AC bill makes your wallet sweat more than the heat outside, it’s time to dig deeper. The good news? You’re not helpless in this situation.
If you wonder, “Why is AC bill so high?” this blog is for you; here we’ll dive into why your AC bill is higher than it should be and what you can do about it.
Let’s face it—nothing lasts forever, and your AC unit is no exception. Older air conditioners are far less efficient than today’s models, meaning they need more electricity to cool the same space. Most units last around 10-15 years, but their performance drops once they get to the latter end of that spectrum.
If your unit is past its prime, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model. Newer ACs come with higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio ratings, meaning they use less energy while delivering the same, if not better, cooling power. This investment could save you a substantial amount on your monthly bills.
Like a car, your AC unit needs regular tune-ups to run smoothly. If you skip routine maintenance, dirt and dust can clog up the filters, which makes the unit work harder to cool your home. This inefficiency can result in higher electricity use, increasing energy costs.
Make sure to schedule annual maintenance for your air conditioning system. Change or clean the filters every 1-2 months during summer. This simple step can improve your unit’s efficiency by up to 15%! It’s a quick fix that pays off in the long run.
Are you cooling your house more than necessary? If you are doing so, you can overwork your AC unit, which increases your AC bill. Setting the thermostat just a few degrees higher can make a noticeable difference in energy usage without sacrificing comfort.
Try setting your thermostat at 78°F (26°C) when you’re home and a few degrees higher when you’re away. If you’re comfortable, you could push it higher and rely on fans for extra cooling. Another option is investing in a programmable thermostat, which adjusts the temperature automatically depending on the time of day or whether you’re home or not. Smart thermostats can save you up to 10% on your cooling bill!
Your AC system might be working perfectly fine, but if your ductwork leaks, all that cold air could escape into your attic or walls instead of cooling your living space. Leaky ducts force your AC to work harder, increasing your energy bill.
Get a professional to inspect and seal your ducts. This might seem like a hassle, but it can save you up to 30% on your energy costs, making it well worth the effort.
If your home isn’t adequately insulated, the cool air from your AC will escape faster, making the system work overtime. Not only does this result in higher bills, but it also causes uneven cooling, leaving some areas of your home uncomfortably warm.
Check your home’s insulation, especially in the attic and walls. Adding insulation can help maintain a consistent indoor temperature, allowing your AC to work more efficiently. It’s a cost-effective improvement that can lead to long-term savings on your cooling and heating bills.
Finally, it’s not just your AC affecting your electricity bill. If you’re running multiple heat-generating appliances like ovens, dryers, or dishwashers during the hottest part of the day, your AC must work harder to counteract the extra heat.
Try to limit the use of heat-generating appliances during the hottest hours of the day. Instead, use them when the outdoor temperature is cooler. Consider using energy-efficient appliances to reduce your overall energy consumption.
The good news is that with a few adjustments and intelligent upgrades, you can make your air conditioning system more efficient and reduce those soaring bills.
By giving your AC the attention it needs, investing in home improvements like better insulation, and adopting energy-saving habits, you can make a difference. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also be doing your part to reduce your home’s energy footprint. Every small step counts!
For 12+ years, Air Texas AC & Heating has brought comfort with its HVAC service. We offer affordable, on-time, and trusted heating and air conditioning services. Call us to fix or install your AC unit so you can be comfortable 24/7.