No one wants a high electricity bill. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the factors that may be contributing to an increase in your kilowatt usage and your overall cost. One of the key contributors to increased electric bills is a dysfunctional AC unit. High electricity bills indicate that your system is not operating properly and most likely requires adequate AC repair.
First, we must start with the reasons why your AC is malfunctioning and causing a rise in energy usage. There are many common factors associated with this problem, so it’s important to identify the root issue either before or during AC repair. For your convenience, we’ve formulated a list of potential causes for increased electric bills as it relates to your air conditioner. So, take some time to consider which of the following may be contributing to the issue and take it from there!
1) Dirty or Damaged AC Filters
AC units regularly accumulate debris, dust, dander, and more. Let’s face it: as clean and tidy as we may keep our homes, these materials will always be present and make their way into filters. However, sometimes these materials accumulate too often and in large amounts, resulting in a clogged or damaged filter. Clogged air filters significantly reduce system performance and increase energy consumption. It’s important to clean and/or replace air filters regularly to avoid the build-up of debris and increase the efficiency of your AC.
2) Leaking Ducts
Cooled air can escape from its designated pathway because of damage to your ductwork, which can result in leakage. This issue ultimately makes your system work twice as hard just to reach the desired temperature. You may find yourself regularly adjusting or lowering the desired temperature because it feels as though your unit is not operating properly. Both of these factors are common contributors to increased electric bill costs.
3) Outdated AC Unit
Air conditioners typically have a lifespan of anywhere from 10 to 15 years before they begin to malfunction. The older your unit, the less efficient it becomes. It may be time for you to invest in a more modern AC to ensure efficiency and optimal functionality.
4) Improper Maintenance
Perhaps you’ve found yourself Googling: “Why is my electricity bill so high?”, and the first thing that popped up was AC repair. While it’s true that every appliance requires maintenance from time to time and that proper maintenance of AC units can help reduce electric bills, it’s critical to vet any service before allowing them to proceed with repairs. Or, maybe you took a DIY approach to repairs. Whatever the case, proper maintenance can increase the efficiency of the unit and decrease overall costs regarding your electric bill. Be sure to rely on an expert and professional service like Home Comfort USA for expert repairs.
5) Insufficient Refrigerant
The refrigerant in an air conditioning unit plays an integral role in the proper cooling and distribution of hot air in your home. This coolant removes heat from your home while allowing for the production of cold air. If your AC is leaking refrigerant or has other refrigerant-related issues, your system will not draw out heat efficiently. This can result in your system working significantly harder to reach desired temperatures, causing higher electric bills.
Do You Require AC Repair?
No one enjoys seeing an increase in costs associated with bills of any sort. Your investments should work for you; not the other way around. This specifically rings true with air conditioner units. So, if you’re tired of watching your electricity bill climb, and feel certain that these influxes are related to the dysfunctionality of your AC, contact Home Comfort USA today! Our expert technicians will be happy to find the root cause of your climbing electric bill and provide a service that will leave you wondering why you hadn’t thought of us sooner! Check out our promotions or schedule your AC repair today!
