What Makes My AC Bill So High?
Posted by Moore Home Services
HVAC Basics
While there are many things we look forward to in the summer, some aspects will never be fun. Our least favorite parts of summer are mosquitoes and higher than normal AC bills. While we can’t help you much with the mosquitoes, we can offer some advice and solutions. If you ever receive your utility bill and wonder, “what makes my AC bill so high,” it’s time to read the rest of this post.
Lack of Maintenance
One of the best things you can do to keep your AC bills low is to schedule regular maintenance for your air conditioner. When you book a tune-up with Moore Home Services, you’re guaranteed a respectful, clean technician will show up and preform our 26-point AC tune-up and professional cleaning. This HVAC tech will go through every part of your system with a fine tooth comb and ensure everything is running at peak efficiency. If there are any problems, your HVAC technician will diagnose them and offer you the best solution. If you don’t have annual tune-ups preformed on your unit, it could make your bills skyrocket. This could be because of faulty or broken parts, dirty filters, or several other issues.
Leaking Ductwork
If you have central AC, any and all air that’s dispersed through your home travels through ductwork. This ductwork evenly distributes air to your vents and throughout your home. A common problem we see with ductwork are leaks and holes. Over time, and with critters like mice or rats, small pinholes can form in your ductwork. Though these holes seem small, they can make your AC bill rise like none other. Small cracks and fissures in your ductwork allow untreated air to mix with treated air; forcing your AC unit to work twice as hard to produce the same amount of cool air. Which in turn makes your AC bill go way up.
Dirty Air Filter
Another reason why your AC bill could be high is your air filter. All air that circulates through your home must first pass through the air filter. Over time, the air filter can get too dirty. If this happens, it renders the air filter mostly useless and forces your AC to work harder just to produce the same amount of air you’re accustom to. We recommend changing your air filter twice every year, once before furnace season and one before AC season. This way you can make sure your HVAC system is running at peak efficiency and your home is safe from some airborne contaminates.
Ways to Keep Your AC Bill Down
If you already have serviced your HVAC system and changed your air filter, but still want to keep your bills down, this section is for you! There are a few things you can do during the summer that will help keep your AC bill down.
Step Away From the Oven – During the summer, using the oven or stove top can greatly increase the heat in your kitchen and the rest of your home. Instead, try using a slow cooker, instant pot, or barbecue for making meals. This will help keep your home cool.
Close the Curtains – One of the best ways to naturally keep your home cool is to keep the curtains shut during the day. This will help keep your home cool and allow your HVAC system to work with less energy.
Turn off the AC After Dark – A great way to save on your monthly utility bill is to turn off your AC when the outside temperature is cool enough to open a window. This will give your AC a chance to rest and help with bringing some fresh air into your home.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat – If you work away from home, or have the ability to leave your home, a programmable thermostat is the best way to help save on your monthly utility bill. You can set the thermostat to different temperatures when you’re in and out of the home, no thinking or adjusting required.
Want to Learn More? Call Moore Home Services
Are you looking to learn more about your home’s HVAC system and how it impacts your utility bills? If the answer is yes, it’s time to give Moore Home Services a call! We are a Diamond Certified company proudly serving Santa Rosa and surrounding communities. Our expertly trained techs are ready to help with any need you may have. To schedule service, reach out to one of our friendly call center representatives today or click here to book online.
