Seven Reasons Why Your AC Bill Is So High

Why is your AC bill so high? Searching for answers reveals an easy solution to the problem: AC repair in Dayton, Ohio.

At A1 Mechanical, we harness over 40 years of experience to yield consistently superior results. Here, we discuss seven reasons for higher cooling expenses and how we can help.

Seven Causes Behind Your Rising Cooling Expenses

What are the seven most common reasons homeowners pay more to cool their homes?

1. Excessive Use Requires More Energy

The more you run the air conditioner, the more energy you use. You probably understand this intuitively but may not keep detailed records of how frequently you run it.

Smart thermostats send the data directly to a mobile device or tablet. If the increase in your bills only occurs during the hottest months of the summer (June through August in most places), you can likely blame increased usage.

2. An Older Unit Works Harder To Produce Results

An old and inefficient AC unit can still cool your home, but the wear and tear requires it to work much harder. You’ll likely notice this effect once your cooling system reaches at least a decade old. Many homeowners save more money in the long term by upgrading to a newer device.

3. The Device Lacks Regular Maintenance

Why is your AC bill so high? Consider when the device last had a tune-up.

An annual inspection is the most important thing you can do for an air conditioner. A lack of regular AC maintenance has the following effect:

• Shorter life expectancy and early replacement
• More frequent and expensive repairs
• A severe lack of comfort in the home
• Significantly higher energy bills

4. The Home Requires Better Insulation

While maintaining an AC helps keep energy bills low, poor home insulation can negate the effects of an efficient device. Old windows and gaps in doors can force the cooling system to run longer and more frequently to maintain your thermostat settings.

Leaky or unsealed ductwork also prevents all the cool air from reaching each room. The system takes longer to make the home comfortable.

5. Dirt and Debris Has Accumulated in the System

Dirt and debris buildup cause widespread issues with a cooling system, including a lack of efficiency. The filter is the most likely culprit. Dirty or clogged air filters significantly reduce circulation, preventing it from traveling through the ductwork with sufficient power.

The device’s coils are also susceptible. Blockages prevent the cool air from evaporating and dispersing throughout the building, leading to the feeling of lukewarm temperatures. Finally, much like blocked arteries restrict blood flow, excessive dust in ducts prevents proper movement of air current. 

6. Various Components Need Repairs or Recalibration

Your device relies on a complicated network of components to run properly. The following problems can reduce efficiency and increase energy expenses:

• Faulty thermostats: Incorrect thermostat settings (like setting it to heating rather than cooling), low batteries, or a bad sensor all prevent the air conditioner from working properly.
• Damaged coils: Why is your AC bill so high? In addition to dirt buildup, damaged coils prevent the complete transfer of hot and cold air, making the process take longer.
• Worn compressors: This component helps regulate the refrigerant pressure and absorb heat from the air. If it functions sub-optimally, it cools the home less efficiently.
• Broken fans and motors: Without a powerful fan, the device can’t circulate air through the ducts.
• Faulty capacitors: Capacitors provide the initial electrical jolt to activate the cooling system. If it doesn’t deliver enough power, the device runs less efficiently.
• Clogged expansion valves: The expansion valve regulates the flow of refrigerant. If it clogs, the system can’t cool the air.

7. Your Refrigerant Levels Run Low

Refrigerant is the lifeblood of a cooling system. It absorbs warm air and expels it outside. Then, it brings cool air indoors and disperses it through the ductwork.

While the device contains the substance within an enclosed network of tubes and components, leaks develop. As the levels drop, the system becomes increasingly less efficient. Eventually, it can cause enough damage that the device will require early replacement.

Tips for Caring for Your System and Keeping Expenses Minimal

How can you care for your air conditioner and reduce the chances it causes a rise in energy bills? 

Prioritize Annual Maintenance by a Certified Technician

Never neglect maintenance from a competent HVAC technician. Consider scheduling it in late spring to ensure the air conditioner doesn’t break when you need it most. The process includes a detailed inspection that increases efficiency and addresses any minor issues because they become serious.

Perform Simple At-Home Care Habits

Though you should never perform DIY air conditioner maintenance and repairs, you can safely practice a few beneficial habits. Air filters require replacement or cleaning at least once a month. Check them more frequently if you have pets or smoke inside the home.

Also, keep the vents and registers that distribute the air throughout the home clear. Don’t block them with furniture and dust them regularly as part of routine cleaning.

Finally, install the thermostat out of direct sunlight and away from curtains. This ensures it provides an accurate reading.

Use Your Cooling System Only as Necessary

Excessive use of the air conditioner increases energy bills and decreases life expectancy. The United States Department of Energy suggests setting the air conditioner to 78 degrees. It keeps the home safe and runs the device efficiently.

Does this temperature seem uncomfortably hot? Open windows during nice weather and run ceiling fans to circulate the air. You can stay comfortable without completely relying on the cooling system.

Call A1 Mechanical for Reliable Repairs Whenever You Have Air Conditioner Problems

Why is your AC bill so high? At A1 Mechanical, we accurately diagnose the cause of an AC not turning on, running less efficiently, and many other problems. With over 40 years of experience, you can rely on us to create superior results that always leave you satisfied.

We provide 24/7 emergency service. To schedule an appointment, call 937-865-2325.