As temperatures rise, so do energy bills. For most households, the air conditioning system is the biggest contributor. Understanding how your AC system uses energy and what you can do to improve AC efficiency in Dacula, GA will help you keep your home comfortable without breaking the bank. Here’s what homeowners should know about energy consumption, utility bills, and how to save money this season.
What Affects Your AC’s Energy Use?
Several factors affect how much energy your air conditioner consumes. System age, unit size, home insulation, thermostat settings, and even how often you change your air filter all play a role.
One of the most significant factors? The age and efficiency of your air conditioning unit. Older AC systems typically have lower SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2) ratings and were built to different efficiency standards than modern systems. As a result, they consume more energy to deliver less cooling.
Additionally, if your AC hasn’t been maintained regularly, it may be working harder than it needs to—dirty coils, clogged filters, and low refrigerant levels all cause the system to draw more power.
Tips for Boosting AC Efficiency
Whether you’re running an older unit or a new one, there are smart steps you can take to improve efficiency and lower your monthly costs:
- Change your air filter every 1–3 months. A clogged filter restricts airflow and makes your system work harder.
- Seal leaks around doors and windows. Preventing warm air from entering your home means your AC doesn’t have to cool as much.
- Use ceiling fans. They help circulate cool air and allow you to raise your thermostat setting by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.
- Install a programmable or smart thermostat. These devices optimize cooling schedules to avoid unnecessary use when you’re not home.
- Schedule annual AC maintenance. A professional tune-up ensures your system is clean, well-lubricated, and running at peak efficiency.
Understanding Your Utility Bill
Your utility bill typically charges you per kilowatt-hour (kWh) used, and air conditioners can draw thousands of watts when operating, especially older models. You may also see higher charges during peak demand hours or seasons. Reviewing your bill can help you pinpoint when usage spikes and adjust your cooling habits accordingly.
Compare your past summer bills to recent months to get a sense of how much cooling your home is really costing you and where efficiency upgrades could help.
Why Upgrading Your AC System Pays Off
If your AC unit is more than 10–12 years old, replacing it with a high-efficiency model could dramatically lower your energy consumption. New systems are designed to cool more effectively while using far less electricity. In fact, some high-efficiency models can cut your cooling costs by up to 30% or more.
We understand that upgrading to a new system is a big investment—but it doesn’t have to be a burden. To make energy efficiency more accessible, we offer excellent financing options on new AC installations. That means you can start saving on your monthly bills right away, without a large upfront cost.
Take Control of Your Comfort and Costs
Don’t let energy waste drain your wallet this season. Whether you need tips to improve your current system or are ready to upgrade to a high-efficiency model, our team is here to help. Reach out to us today to learn more about your options and how you can stay cool while saving money.
Reach out to Wall Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. with any inquiries or to make an appointment.