Bad Habits That Make Your AC Bills Higher
Many Alabama homeowners unknowingly develop bad habits that cause their air conditioning bills to skyrocket. From poor maintenance to inefficient usage, these everyday mistakes force your AC system to work harder than necessary, leading to higher energy consumption and costly utility bills.
By identifying and correcting these habits, you can improve your system’s efficiency, stay comfortable and save money. Let’s take a look at some common bad habits that could be making your energy bills higher:
Opening Windows and Doors
While opening your doors and windows can improve ventilation, it can also make your AC bill higher. When you open a window or door, you're letting in warm air and moisture, which forces your AC to work harder than it should. This results in more energy usage and higher energy bills.
Closing Vents in Unused Rooms
When your vents are closed, this can make your AC unit work harder, restrict airflow and create uneven temperatures within your home. Because of this reduced efficiency, your energy use increases, costing you more money in the long run.
Setting the Thermostat Too Low
One common habit that drives up energy costs is setting the thermostat too low. If the temperature is too low, your AC will work harder to keep your home cooler than it needs to be.
This increased energy consumption directly impacts your utility bills, especially in summer when heat and humidity are at their peak. Keeping your thermostat at a moderate temperature helps maintain comfort while saving money and conserving energy.
Failing To Change Air Filters Regularly
Failing to change air filters regularly causes them to become dirty and clogged. Clogged air filters reduce airflow and place extra pressure on your HVAC unit. This extra strain not only shortens the system’s lifespan but also drives up your energy bills. By regularly replacing filters, you can improve your unit’s efficiency, lower costs and maintain better indoor air quality.
Doing Laundry and Dishes During the Day
Doing laundry and dishes during the day, especially during peak energy hours, can significantly increase your electricity bill. Laundry machines and dishwashers produce heat and moisture, which can reduce your AC’s efficiency and make your bills higher.
Plus, utility companies often charge higher rates when demand is highest, typically in the afternoon. By running these appliances during off-peak hours, like early morning or late evening, you can use energy more efficiently and save money.
Putting Off Routine Maintenance
Putting off routine HVAC maintenance can significantly reduce your system’s efficiency, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. Without routine inspections, small issues like worn parts or refrigerant leaks can go unnoticed and turn into expensive repairs.
Regular maintenance also helps your system run more efficiently, improves indoor air quality and extends the lifespan of your HVAC unit. Scheduling professional inspections and duct cleanings ensures that your system doesn't have to work harder than necessary, ultimately saving you money and energy over time.
Some forms of routine maintenance include:
- Changing air filters
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Testing the thermostat
- Cleaning ducts
Other Factors That Contribute to Higher Bills
Our habits aren’t the only things that make our energy bills higher. Let’s explore some of the other factors that can drive up costs.
Improper Thermostat Placement
If your home’s thermostat is in a sunny area or is placed too close to a draft, it may read the temperature inaccurately. Inaccurate readings reduce your AC’s efficiency and cause your utility bills to rise. Additionally, the temperature in your home may not be comfortable and cause certain parts of your home to feel too hot or cold.
Not Enough Insulation
Not having enough insulation in your home allows cool air to escape and hot air to enter, making your AC work overtime to maintain a comfortable temperature. This constant strain on your system leads to higher energy usage and increased utility bills. Proper insulation helps keep the cool air in and the heat out, improving energy efficiency and reducing overall cooling costs.
Poor, Leaky Ductwork
Poor or leaky ductwork can waste a significant amount of cooled air before it ever reaches the rooms in your home. This forces your AC system to run longer and work harder to achieve cooler temperatures, driving up your energy bills. Sealing and properly maintaining your ductwork ensures efficient airflow, improves comfort and helps lower cooling costs.
Looking for Professional HVAC Services? Call C&G Today!
If you're looking for professional HVAC services, our certified technicians are here to help! Located in Smiths Station, C & G Heating & Air Conditioning serves several communities along the Alabama-Georgia border including Phenix City, Auburn, Opelika and Columbus.
For more information, give us a call at 334-489-3329. To learn more about other services including ductwork maintenance and AC installation, click the link
here.
Other Factors That Contribute to Higher Bills
Our habits aren’t the only things that make our energy bills higher. Let’s explore some of the other factors that can drive up costs.
Improper Thermostat Placement
If your home’s thermostat is in a sunny area or is placed too close to a draft, it may read the temperature inaccurately. Inaccurate readings reduce your AC’s efficiency and cause your utility bills to rise. Additionally, the temperature in your home may not be comfortable and cause certain parts of your home to feel too hot or cold.
Not Enough Insulation
Not having enough insulation in your home allows cool air to escape and hot air to enter, making your AC work overtime to maintain a comfortable temperature. This constant strain on your system leads to higher energy usage and increased utility bills. Proper insulation helps keep the cool air in and the heat out, improving energy efficiency and reducing overall cooling costs.
Poor, Leaky Ductwork
Poor or leaky ductwork can waste a significant amount of cooled air before it ever reaches the rooms in your home. This forces your AC system to run longer and work harder to achieve cooler temperatures, driving up your energy bills. Sealing and properly maintaining your ductwork ensures efficient airflow, improves comfort and helps lower cooling costs.
Looking for Professional HVAC Services? Call C&G Today!
If you're looking for professional HVAC services, our certified technicians are here to help! Located in Smiths Station, C & G Heating & Air Conditioning serves several communities along the Alabama-Georgia border including Phenix City, Auburn, Opelika and Columbus.
For more information, give us a call at 334-489-3329. To learn more about other services including ductwork maintenance and AC installation, click the link
here.
