Worried about your AC unit’s impact on your Greenwood home’s electricity bill? Reserve an HVAC inspection from Complete Comfort Heating, Air & Plumbing!
Like most Indiana residents, you probably rely on an air conditioner to cool your home during the summer. Though it’s fair to expect the increased HVAC system usage to raise your monthly energy bills slightly, you might ask, “Why is my AC bill so high?” if your expenses are excessive without an obvious reason.
As a top HVAC company in Greenwood, Indiana, our Complete Comfort Heating, Air & Plumbing experts know that an inefficient air conditioning system could cause energy bills to climb unexpectedly. Here, we explain the most common links between cooling systems and energy bills and how you can manage them.
You Keep the Air Conditioner Running
A common misconception about air conditioners is that they maintain the desired temperature on a thermostat better when they work nonstop. Yet, the longer you run your HVAC system, the more energy it will consume—excess energy usage results in higher energy expenses.
Overworking your air conditioner is also bad for its performance. When a system is forced to work longer and harder than it should, it puts an undue strain on its components. Parts will wear down prematurely or sustain avoidable damage.
When your air conditioner’s performance suffers, you’ll spend more on electricity. However, you’ll also pay for HVAC repairs and, in the worst-case scenario, pay for a cooling system replacement, which is expensive.
These tips will help you operate your air conditioning system more efficiently:
- Adjust your thermostat between 76 to 78 degrees
- Turn the air conditioner off when nobody is home
- Install a programmable thermostat
- Use fans to increase your indoor comfort without using the air conditioner nonstop
The Air Conditioner Lacks Regular Maintenance
Routine maintenance is crucial for air conditioners and furnaces. Scheduling annual tune-ups with a qualified HVAC company will keep your system running at optimal performance levels. The service includes a thorough system inspection, equipment cleaning, essential repairs, and recalibrations.
Many people ignore their HVAC systems until they notice a problem. Others may think the service is an unnecessary expense. However, your system and electricity bills will benefit from preventative maintenance by ensuring the cooling unit can tackle the summer heat.
Air Ducts Are Leaking
If your Greenwood home has a central air conditioning unit, the system relies on ductwork to transfer and disperse chilled air through air vents around the house. You should seal the ducts to minimize air seepage as it moves from one place to another. Unfortunately, degraded air ducts could develop holes or cracks around their seams and joints, causing more air to escape.
When air ducts leak, it makes the air conditioner overwork itself to keep the home cool. If your house doesn’t seem as chilled and comfortable as usual, you might need an HVAC technician to inspect and repair your ductwork.
The Cooling System Is Old
Age will influence HVAC performance. Most air conditioners have a lifespan between 15 and 20 years. With regular maintenance, your air conditioner will last longer, but it won’t last forever.
If you’re using an old, outdated cooling system, you’ll likely notice steady increases in your energy expenses. The equipment tends to consume more energy when it nears the end of its lifespan. Your model may also be less energy-efficient than modern, upgraded units.
Once your air conditioner reaches its tenth year of use, it’s time to consider a replacement. It’s better to replace HVAC equipment before it experiences a total system failure so you don’t have to pay for frequent repairs or deal with poor performance and indoor discomfort.
There's a Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is integral to the heat transfer process that draws heat from indoor air to disperse outdoors, leaving indoor air feeling cool. The liquid-to-gas chemical flows on a closed loop. A leak in air conditioning coils can reduce the amount of refrigerant in the system, which impacts its ability to transfer heat.
A refrigerant leak isn’t something you can fix by yourself. If you suspect your air conditioner is overworking itself and consuming more energy than normal due to a refrigerant leak, contact an HVAC professional immediately to repair the damage and recharge the refrigerant.
Air Filters Are Dirty
One of the easiest ways to prevent premature air conditioning damage and unnecessary energy consumption is to regularly change your unit’s air filter. The filter traps airborne particles. Unless you change the filter at least once every 90 days, the dirty filter will restrict airflow and make the AC unit overwork itself.
You Don't Close Windows
If you’re asking, “Why is my AC bill so high?” and nothing appears to be wrong with your air conditioner’s performance, the problem could be your window habits. Many people forego turning on their cooling units when it isn’t scorching hot outside. Instead, they’ll open their home’s windows to let in fresh air and pleasant breezes.
The problem arises when you forget to turn off your air conditioner before opening windows. The cool air inside your home, coupled with the warmer outdoor air, will affect the indoor temperature. As a result, your air conditioner will work harder and longer to maintain your desired temperature and cause spikes in your electricity bill.
Before turning on your air conditioner, ensure all windows in your home are closed. If you’d rather feel a cool, fresh breeze from outside, temporarily shut off your AC unit before opening a window.
Turn to Complete Comfort Heating, Air & Plumbing for All Your Cooling Needs
If you’re asking questions like “Why is my AC bill so high?” or “How many watts does an air conditioner use?” we can help. Complete Comfort Heating, Air & Plumbing is one of the best HVAC companies serving Greenwood, Indiana and the neighboring communities. We offer affordable and reliable heating and cooling services, including repairs, installations, and maintenance.
Book your appointment with our well-trained, EPA-certified technicians to optimize your air conditioner’s performance—call (317) 868-7468 today.
