As the summer days pass by, it seems like the temperatures keep getting higher and higher. With the high temperatures, the need for a reliable air conditioner becomes vital. However, this enhanced comfort also comes with the cost of high energy consumption and bills.
Many find themselves wrestling with the dilemma of staying comfortable while dealing with the financial strain of increased energy bills. So the question arises, “Why does my AC system consume so much power?”
To understand this, we must explore the factors that contribute to an AC’s high energy usage and how you can prevent it. By doing so, you can make informed decisions when purchasing new units and how to effectively utilize your system while saving money.
How Much Power Does an AC Use?
In order to understand why air conditioners use up so much power, it is important to understand how they work. An air conditioner works by taking warm air from inside your home and sending it outside. It does this using a special liquid called refrigerant. The warm air goes through coils with this liquid, and it cools down, making your home feel cool and comfortable.
However, during the summer, it’s harder for the air conditioner because it must work extra long to keep your home cool. The hot air outside wants to sneak back in, and the air conditioner has to keep pushing it out. It’s important to note that if your home isn’t well insulated, some of the cool air can escape, making the air conditioner work even harder.
So, during the summer, your air conditioner has to keep running to battle the heat, and that’s why it uses a lot of electricity, leading to those high power bills. It’s important to make sure your home is well-sealed and insulated to help your air conditioner work more efficiently and save energy.
Why Is My AC Suddenly Using More Electricity?
If you are experiencing a sudden spike in your AC system’s energy consumption, there may be an issue with the unit itself. If your air conditioning system goes without regular maintenance, you may run into various problems, like:
- Air Leaks: Gaps around doors and windows can allow hot air to enter, increasing the workload on your AC.
- Old or Inefficient AC Unit: Older AC units may be less energy-efficient and consume more power.
- Clogged Air Filters: Dirty filters restrict airflow, making the AC work harder to circulate air.
- Blocked Vents or Registers: Obstructed vents can reduce airflow, making it harder for the AC to cool your home.
What To Do About Rising Energy Costs
No one enjoys increasing energy bills in order to stay cool during the summer. Fortunately, advances in air conditioning technology have made AC systems more affordable and significantly more energy-efficient. Newer models prioritize energy conservation, benefiting both your finances and the environment. Upgrading your AC system to a more modern model can save you a considerable amount of money on energy expenses over time. However, it’s crucial to determine which new air conditioning system is the best fit for your needs.
If you don’t think installing a new unit is right for you, there are a few tips you can follow to keep your energy bills low during the hot summer months:
- Regular Maintenance: Schedule annual AC maintenance to ensure it runs efficiently, changing filters and cleaning coils as needed.
- Proper Insulation: Ensure your home is well-insulated to prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering.
- Strategic Ventilation: Use ceiling fans and open windows during cooler times to help circulate air and reduce the need for AC.
- Shade and Window Coverings: Keep blinds or curtains closed throughout the warmest parts of the day to block direct sunlight and heat.
Our technicians from Home Comfort Experts are here to help you find an AC system that will start saving you money in energy costs. We will take your budget and heating and cooling needs into account before choosing a model.
To get started on your long-term energy and money savings, contact us and set up an appointment. Give us a call at (574) 626-1320 to learn about our reliable heating and cooling services and how we can keep you and your family stay safe and comfortable throughout the entire year.