An air conditioner in Texas is not only a luxury, it’s a necessity. If you’re a new homeowner—or even an experienced one, you may be shocked by the costs of AC systems these days. In this blog, we’ll go over why an air conditioner costs so much with ways to lower your monthly energy bill.
Factors Contributing to High Air Conditioning Costs
Once your unit has hit a certain age, it’s only a matter of time until it can’t keep up anymore. When an aged AC unit causes high energy bills and doesn’t blow cool air like it used to, then it may be time for a new system. Every homeowner dreads the day when their air conditioner goes out because the cost is no joke. But why is an AC unit so expensive in the first place?
There are many reasons why air conditioners are so expensive including:
The Type of AC Unit
There are many brands and types of air conditioners to choose from that come in different sizes, shapes, energy efficiency, cooling capabilities, and more.
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) Rating
A SEER rating determines how well an HVAC performs in heating and cooling your home. It’s important to pay attention to the SEER level when assessing the costs of an AC unit to ensure you’re getting the best quality system for your money.
The Size of Your Home
It may be a given, but the larger your home is, the more expensive your month-to-month energy bill will be. When you’re cooling many rooms in a home, your HVAC or AC Unit will work harder and longer.
How to Save Money on Air Conditioning
- Optimize Your Thermostat Settings
Many times people will assume that turning off an AC unit when it’s not in use will save money and energy. However, it utilizes more energy to turn on and off your unit, and considerably increases the wear and tear. You should always keep your AC running to maintain consistent room temperatures and cheaper electric bills. It may take some time to get used to, but we recommend setting your thermostat at 78ºF or higher for optimal savings. Generally, the best rule of thumb to follow when setting your thermostat is to set it as close to the temperature outside as possible. For example, if it’s 72ºF outside, set your thermostat to 72ºF.
A programmable thermostat can help you adjust temperatures based on your schedule, reducing energy consumption when you’re away or asleep.
- Perform Regular HVAC Maintenances
Routine maintenance is crucial for keeping your air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently. There are a couple of DIY tasks you can do to improve your HVAC’s performance, such as replacing air filters and checking for any obstructions in the vents. Along with simple cleanings, we recommend scheduling professional HVAC maintenance at least once a quarter, or before any major seasonal changes. At Sunny Services, our team of pros works to maximize your HVAC unit’s lifespan, ensuring any potential issues are identified and dealt with.
- Seal and Insulate Your Windows and Doors
Sealing and insulating your windows and doors will minimize the workload on your air conditioner. When there are air leaks and drafts around your windows, doors, and ductwork—then your home may have inconsistent temperatures and lose hot and cold air. Proper insulation will enhance your home’s energy efficiency by trapping cool air inside during hot weather and preventing heat from penetrating during colder months.
- Alternative Cooling Methods
To reduce your air conditioning usage, use supplemental or alternative cooling methods. Utilize fans and ceiling fans to circulate air and create a wind-chill effect—this will make rooms feel cooler without lowering the thermostat. Place covering over your windows such as blinds or curtains to help block out sunlight and reduce the heat in a room. Cross-ventilation and natural cooling techniques like opening windows during cooler evenings promote airflow and cooling.
Additional Cost-Saving Tips and Resources
- Monitor and track your energy usage to identify areas for improvement and gauge the effectiveness of your energy-saving effort.
- Explore government rebates and incentives for energy efficiency upgrades to offset the cost of investing in eco-friendly solutions.
- Community resources and programs may also offer assistance with energy bills for those in need.
Your Local HVAC Experts
Just because you want to save money on your air conditioning costs, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your comfort. If you need a new AC unit, choose one that works best for you—the experts at Sunny Services can help! With our AC energy-saving tips, you can feel good about lowering your environmental footprint and better yet, possibly save money on your future utility bill.