Air conditioning takes the lion’s share of the high energy expenses that homeowners usually incur in the summer. This implies that the savings you can get from reducing your air conditioning costs are substantial. To help you effectively save money, let’s break down the main culprits behind high summer AC bills and learn how you can resolve them.
Increased AC Use
Your air conditioning system is a big energy hog. The hotter it gets outside, the harder the system has to work to keep your house at your preferred temperature. Luckily, there are steps you can take to cut down the amount of electricity it uses — even in the height of summer.
- Invest in a programmable thermostat. Set it upward during the day when the house is empty or when everyone’s asleep.
- Use ceiling fans to move cold air around. They’ll make you feel cooler and take some burden off the air conditioner.
Poor Maintenance
A poorly maintained air conditioner costs more to operate than a properly maintained one. Be sure to schedule a comprehensive preventive AC tuneup each year. Change your air filters regularly, because dirty filters make your system work harder.
Old System
Air conditioners typically last for 10 to 16 years. If you’ve had yours for longer than that, it’s probably responsible for your high electric bill. Newer systems are significantly more energy-efficient than older models. What’s more, older units tend to lose their efficiency and require more maintenance. Upgrading to a newer Energy Star-certified unit will help you save significantly on energy bills.
Air Leaks
A home that leaks air is much harder to cool efficiently. Some of the parts of your home where air can leak out include:
- Attic
- Walls
- Crawl space
- Windows
Have a professional insulate your attic and walls properly to help your AC run more efficiently. Also, caulk up the cracks in your windows.
High AC bills in the summer won’t plague you every year, provided you understand and deal with their source. If you need help with AC replacement, repair, or maintenance, contact us at Ace Hardware Home Services, proudly serving the Dayton area since 1978.
