As the warm weather rolls into Howard, OH, and temperatures begin to rise, it’s the perfect time to make sure your air conditioning system is ready to keep your home cool and comfortable. Unfortunately, many homeowners unknowingly make mistakes that can cause their air conditioners to work harder than they should, leading to inflated energy bills. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for nearly half of the energy used in a typical home, making it essential to ensure your AC is running efficiently.
Whether you’re experiencing the first signs of summer or you’ve already turned your AC on full blast, now is the time to avoid common air conditioning mistakes that could cost you more money. In this blog, we’ll walk through some of the most frequent errors homeowners make and give you practical tips on how to keep your energy bills under control while ensuring your system runs smoothly all summer long.
1. Neglecting Regular AC Maintenance
Air conditioning systems, like any other mechanical equipment, require regular maintenance to operate at peak efficiency. Many homeowners overlook this critical step, leading to costly repairs and higher energy bills. Failing to clean or replace air filters, neglecting to check refrigerant levels, or not scheduling professional maintenance can cause your system to work harder than necessary, wasting energy in the process.
Why It Matters:
A well-maintained air conditioner runs more efficiently, using less energy to cool your home. For example, a dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing the system to overwork, which not only increases your energy consumption but can also shorten the lifespan of your AC.
What You Can Do:
To avoid this mistake, schedule annual maintenance with a trusted HVAC professional like Cosby Heating and Cooling. A technician can clean the coils, check refrigerant levels, lubricate moving parts, and inspect the system for any potential issues. Regular maintenance can help ensure that your AC operates efficiently throughout the hot months.
2. Setting Your Thermostat Too Low
It’s natural to want to quickly cool down your home when the temperatures soar outside, but setting your thermostat too low can actually make your AC work harder, leading to higher energy consumption and increased bills.
Why It Matters:
Setting the thermostat too low can cause your system to run continuously without reaching the desired temperature. The harder it works, the more energy it uses. Additionally, dropping the temperature too drastically in comparison to the outside air creates a significant difference, leading to an uncomfortable environment.
What You Can Do:
Instead of cranking the thermostat as low as possible, aim to set it at a comfortable but reasonable temperature, typically around 78°F during the summer. For every degree you raise the temperature, you can save up to 3% on your energy bill, so keep this in mind when adjusting the settings.
Additionally, consider using a programmable thermostat, which allows you to set the temperature to automatically adjust when you’re away or sleeping. This reduces energy consumption while still maintaining comfort.
3. Ignoring Airflow Issues
Proper airflow is essential for the efficient operation of your air conditioning system. When airflow is restricted, your system has to work harder to circulate air throughout your home, which can lead to higher energy costs and less effective cooling.
Why It Matters:
Poor airflow can occur due to a variety of issues, including closed vents, obstructed ducts, or dirty air filters. If your air conditioning system is struggling to move air through the ducts, it’s using more energy to achieve the same result, which can increase your energy bill.
What You Can Do:
Check your vents and make sure they’re open and unobstructed. Furniture, curtains, or other items blocking airflow can cause unnecessary strain on your system. Also, regularly change or clean the air filters to ensure optimal airflow. If you notice any other airflow issues, such as inconsistent cooling in different areas of your home, it’s a good idea to have your ducts inspected.
4. Leaving Windows and Doors Open While the AC Is Running
On a warm day, the temptation to leave windows and doors open while the air conditioner is running can be strong, especially when you want fresh air circulating. However, this is one of the most common mistakes that can lead to unnecessary energy use.
Why It Matters:
When you open windows and doors while your air conditioner is on, you’re essentially letting warm air in and cool air out. This forces your AC to work overtime to maintain the temperature inside your home, driving up your energy bills.
What You Can Do:
Make sure to close all windows and doors while the air conditioner is running. If you want fresh air, it’s better to turn off the AC for a while and let natural ventilation do the work. This will prevent the system from working harder than necessary to maintain your desired indoor temperature.
5. Overworking Your AC During Extreme Heat
When temperatures outside climb to extreme highs, your air conditioner may struggle to keep up, especially if it hasn’t been properly maintained or if it’s an older model. Running your system at full blast for hours on end can result in increased wear and tear, which can ultimately raise your energy costs and lead to costly repairs.
Why It Matters:
Excessive strain on your air conditioning system can lead to mechanical failure, as well as increased energy consumption. The longer your AC runs continuously, the more energy it uses.
What You Can Do:
If you’re experiencing extreme heat, it’s a good idea to implement strategies that ease the load on your system. Try using ceiling fans in conjunction with your air conditioner to circulate cool air more efficiently. Additionally, keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day to prevent heat from entering through the windows.
If your AC unit is older or inefficient, it might be time to consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model. Modern air conditioning systems are designed to use less energy while providing better cooling performance, which could save you money in the long run.
6. Not Insulating or Sealing Your Home Properly
A well-insulated and sealed home is essential for maintaining a comfortable temperature and preventing cool air from escaping. Poor insulation, leaky windows, and gaps in doors can all result in your air conditioning system working harder to keep your home cool, ultimately driving up your energy bills.
Why It Matters:
When your home isn’t properly sealed or insulated, your air conditioner has to work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. This leads to wasted energy and higher utility bills.
What You Can Do:
Check for gaps around windows and doors, and seal them with weatherstripping or caulking. You should also ensure that your attic and walls are well-insulated to prevent heat from entering during the summer months. By improving your home’s insulation, you’ll help your AC maintain a comfortable temperature without using excessive energy.
7. Using the Wrong Size AC Unit for Your Home
Not all air conditioners are created equal. One of the most critical factors in maintaining efficiency is ensuring that your air conditioning system is the right size for your home. An oversized or undersized unit can lead to inefficiency, causing your energy bills to spike.
Why It Matters:
An oversized air conditioner may cool your home quickly, but it will frequently cycle on and off, which wastes energy. An undersized unit will have to work harder to cool your home, also leading to increased energy usage.
What You Can Do:
Make sure your air conditioner is properly sized for your home. A professional HVAC technician can perform a load calculation to determine the ideal unit size for your space. When upgrading or replacing your system, always consult with a trusted professional like Cosby Heating and Cooling to ensure you’re choosing the right unit for your needs.
For AC Services in Howard, OH, Contact Cosby Heating and Cooling Today
When it comes to keeping your energy bills low while maintaining a comfortable indoor environment, avoiding common AC mistakes is key. By regularly maintaining your system, setting your thermostat wisely, ensuring proper airflow, and addressing issues like insulation and airflow, you can significantly improve your AC’s efficiency and save money on your energy bills.
If you want to ensure that your air conditioning system is operating at its best, don’t hesitate to reach out to Cosby Heating and Cooling. Our team of experienced professionals is here to help with everything from routine maintenance to system upgrades and repairs. For reliable, top-notch HVAC services in Howard, OH, contact us today!
