How Your HVAC System Affects Your Energy Bills
Here at Broadleys, we often get asked “How much of my energy bill is impacted by my HVAC system?” Well, a lot depends on your home, what kind of energy you use, and how you use it, but let’s help break it down for you.
We know the homes in our area of South Jersey can be very different. There are very large homes with tons of rooms and spaces to keep comfortable. There are also smaller spaces that don’t require as much. The truth is, even if the homes are very different, the way they consume energy is going to have a direct impact on their energy bills.
In this article we will tell you a little bit more about how your energy bill is directly affected by your air conditioner and heating system. If you want to speak to an expert today about your HVAC system, give us a call at (609) 390-3907, or contact us online. One of our experts will be happy to help you get on the road to energy savings!
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Air Conditioning Is An Energy Hog
Your air conditioning uses a lot of electricity to run the compressors, fans and other components. This process is what distributes cool air throughout your home. Whether you have a heat pump, ductless mini-splits or window air conditioners, AC tends to consume a decent amount of energy.
When the temperature spikes, you should expect your energy bills to do the same, mostly because of how long your air conditioning system has to run to keep you comfortable- and we’ve already seen more days over 90o than we have since 2012! These bills can really take a bite out of your budget and have you looking for ways to lower them when the hot weather sticks around.
Read More: Ways To Save On Your AC
Increasing Energy Efficiency To Lower Energy Bills
We all have older relatives who go on and on about “bought air” and “Don’t leave the door open and let the cold air out!” They are right- cool air is expensive, and conserving it helps keep your bills lower.
Here are some tips to help you lower your air conditioner related energy bills this summer, and help your budget stay on track:
Set The Thermostat Higher
The US Department of Energy says that setting your AC at 78o is the perfect temperature to balance comfort and savings. For many people, that is simply too warm, and 72- 74o is more comfortable- but it’s also more expensive. For every degree above 72o, you can save 3% on your monthly energy bill!
Use Fans
Using ceiling and portable fans can help distribute the cool air throughout the room, and the breeze helps you feel more comfortable, allowing you to set the thermostat higher but not sacrifice comfort. (They even have fans that can charge on USB connections and you can use them anywhere, even outside!
Keep Your System Maintained
Whether you have a heat pump or central air, keeping your system maintained will help make it more efficient and save you money. For central air and heat pump systems, regular filter changes and yearly preventative maintenance will keep your system operating optimally and help prevent big repair bills.
Schedule Service For Your AC System
Check Insulation
Whether we’re talking about the insulation around a window air conditioner, or insulation around doors, windows and even in your walls and attic, insulation can help keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in Winter- it is always a good investment.
Increasing Your Savings with Energy Efficient system
Newer air conditioners and heat pump systems use different coolants that are able to deliver the same level of comfort using less energy. For example, the Department of Energy estimates that heat pump systems and mini splits are on average 30% more efficient than window air conditioners.
Smart & Programmable Thermostats
If you don’t have one, this is a great way to help monitor your energy usage and save money! Nest, Ecobee, Honeywell and other programmable smart thermostats can help you adjust the temperature at home to help you save the most money, no matter the season. Many of them can also “learn” your habits and help suggest a schedule that keeps you comfortable while keeping your energy use down. Best of all, many of these smart systems can be adjusted on an app on your smartphone, letting you control your system even while you’re away on vacation!
Window Shades
Keeping your shades lowered during the day can help keep your home cooler during warm weather as well- and it can make an impact on your bill at the end of the month!
Air Conditioning In Ocean City, NJ
At this time of year, AC systems are running for longer periods of time, often without a break due to the hot weather and high humidity. Be sure to schedule your regular maintenance, and if your system seems to be cycling on and off frequently, making strange noises, or just isn’t working as well as it used to, be sure to give the experts here at Broadley’s a call. We can inspect your system and ensure it’s in good shape, because the last thing you want is for it to break down when you need it most! Short cycling and weird noises are a sign something more serious could be going on, so don’t delay!