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The summer heat means you’ll run your air conditioning system on most days—often for several hours. All the electricity that goes to powering the compressor of the AC will mean a rise in your electricity bill. That’s simply an unavoidable effect of summer weather if you want to manage to stay cool in your home.
But you may find that your summer electricity bills are much higher than you expected. They don’t match how much you’re using your AC. What could be causing this? Below, we’ll look at the most common causes of an AC becoming a power-waster.
ONE: The air filter needs to be changed
A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing the AC to work harder to cool your home. This increased effort means the system uses more energy, driving up your electricity bill. Regularly changing the air filter ensures smooth airflow and optimal efficiency.
TWO: The AC is short-cycling
Short-cycling occurs when the AC frequently turns on and off in quick succession without completing a full cooling cycle. This not only prevents your home from being fully cooled but also consumes more electricity due to the repeated start-ups. Short-cycling can be caused by issues such as an oversized AC unit, a refrigerant leak, or a faulty thermostat.
THREE: The thermostat is miscalibrated
A thermostat that’s not properly calibrated can cause the AC to run longer than necessary. If the thermostat reads the wrong temperature, it might keep the AC running even when the desired indoor temperature has been reached. Checking and recalibrating your thermostat can ensure your AC operates efficiently.
FOUR: A refrigerant leak in the air conditioner
Refrigerant is essential for the AC to cool your home. A leak not only diminishes the cooling power but also makes the AC run longer to achieve the desired temperature. This extended operation consumes more energy, leading to higher electricity bills. Refrigerant leaks need to be addressed promptly by a professional or it will eventually lead to the compressor burning out.
FIVE: The condenser is dirty or obstructed
The condenser, located outside your home, releases the heat absorbed from inside your house. If it’s dirty or obstructed by debris, it can’t dissipate heat efficiently. This inefficiency forces the AC to work harder and longer, increasing energy consumption. Regular maintenance, including cleaning the condenser, helps maintain energy efficiency.
SIX: The AC is nearing the end of its service life
As air conditioning units age, they become less efficient. Components wear out, and the system must work harder to cool your home, consuming more electricity. If your AC is over 10–15 years old, it might be time to consider a replacement to ensure better energy efficiency and lower electricity bills.
If you can’t tell what’s wrong with your AC and don’t have a simple solution (such as replacing the air filter), your best step is to call our Premier experts for air conditioning repair in Maysville, KY. They can diagnose the problem and find out what needs to be done to get your AC back to its best energy efficiency.