Why You Have Excessively High Cooling Costs

Summer is a great season to spend some time outdoors and enjoy nature. It also helps us get our daily dose of Vitamin D. Unfortunately, summer is also a period when most homes experience an increase in their utility bills, particularly because they have to run their air conditioners.

It’s quite normal for your cooling costs to climb a little bit during summer, but if you notice there is an unusual snowball in your utility bills, you should find out where it comes from. This way, you can make adjustments and control how much you spend on energy.

Four Seasons Air Specialists is your trusted HVAC company in Forest Lake MN. We help homeowners like you to keep their HVAC systems in great shape and perform at peak performance, guaranteeing energy efficiency and absolute comfort.

Here are some of the reasons why you’re paying too much for cooling.

An Aging AC

If your existing air conditioner is about ten years or more, it is highly likely that it is no longer as efficient as it once was. In fact, it’s possible that it’s SEER (seasonal energy efficiency rating) does not meet today’s standards. An AC that operates with aging parts isn’t as efficient as a brand-new system with the latest technology and pristine components.

A Clogged Air Filter

One of the easiest AC parts to clean, the filter is responsible for keeping your air conditioner, ducts, and indoor coils clean. When neglected, a clogged filter fails to perform its task, and instead of cleaning the air, it actually blocks it. When there isn’t enough airflow, it will take the AC longer to cool your home down, which uses more energy. This also puts the entire system at risk because of the added strain on the motors and compressor.

Experts recommend the periodic inspection of air filters and cleaning or replacing them if necessary. As a general rule of thumb, your filter should be replaced once every thirty days. A new filter ensures better airflow and avoids the added pressure on the cooling system.

Low Refrigerant Level

The refrigerant is the substance that your air conditioner uses to remove the heat from your home. In other words, if there is no refrigerant, you can’t expect to have any air conditioning.

While your AC’s refrigerant should never have the need for replacement, since it doesn’t go anywhere, air conditioners sometimes have leaks, where the refrigerant escapes. If you notice your AC is no longer able to make you feel cool as it used to, you may call an HVAC professional to inspect your system for leaks. The technician will seal off the leaks and add the right amount of refrigerant in your air conditioner.

Poor Insulation

The Department of Energy estimates that your HVAC systems are responsible for almost half of your monthly utility costs and the quality of your home’s insulation plays an important part in its energy efficiency.

Therefore, if you have a drafty home, you are letting out precious conditioned air, costing you more than you have to. If you want to lower your utility costs, improving your home’s insulation is a step toward that goal. Call Four Seasons Air Specialists to evaluate your insulation and make the necessary adjustments.

By enhancing your insulation, it will be easier for you to make your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This alone can save you as much as 80 percent in heating and cooling losses.

Subpar HVAC Maintenance

Failure to schedule professional maintenance for your air conditioner can be more costly in the long run. There are certain parts that aren’t very easy to maintain such as the motor, capacitor, ducts, and compressor without the knowledge and the right tools. That’s why it’s best to contact an HVAC expert to come to take a look at your AC to maintain the system and to prevent premature breakdowns.

Lower Your Monthly Cooling Costs with Four Seasons Air Specialists

We’d like to help you increase your home’s energy efficiency while maintaining your preferred comfort levels. So, do not hesitate to give us a call and talk to one of our cooling experts. We are your reliable Hugo AC repair company serving you since 1974.