How to Tell if Your AC Is Costing You More than it Should

Woman inspecting her AC

Nothing should cost you more than what it’s worth to you, especially if it’s not meeting its full functionality. One major problem that people have is the dysfunctionality of their air conditioner, and the added costs associated with it. That’s why we are providing some insight on how to recognize if your AC is costing you more than it should. Sometimes the cost of a new unit, or the costs associated with proper AC repairing, will prove to be less expensive than running a malfunctioning system.

Take some time to familiarize yourself with some of the telltale signs that your system is working overtime, thus costing you more money. Having knowledge of these problems may lead to next steps, and indicate proper courses of action necessary to reduce your electric bill. So, let’s dive right in!

Your AC Is Outdated

The average lifespan of an air conditioner ranges anywhere from 10 to 15 years. Once your unit has reached or even passed this milestone, many mechanical problems can begin to occur. The electrical efficiency of your system will decrease significantly, and integral components such as coils, vents, ductwork, and filters will begin to experience detrimental wear and tear. 

More often than not, individuals will attempt to protect their AC investment by simply calling to schedule repairs. This may seem like the proper course of action, and may even boast some short-term solutions. However, in the long-run, these periodic fixes will not prove to be long-term solutions for a problem that, at its core, is the result of an old, malfunctioning unit that has experienced too much wear-and-tear. 

The best and most cost-effective solution for an outdated unit that is working overtime is investing in a new modern air conditioner. A new AC comes with many upgrades and features that will reduce the costs of electric bills, and prove to be a worthwhile investment.

Your AC Requires Maintenance

Sometimes the solution for an increased electric bill is as simple as scheduling your air conditioner for regular maintenance. If your AC is relatively new, or has yet to reach its 10th birthday, its influx in kilowatt usage can be as easy to solve as scheduling repairs. Regular maintenance is paramount to an energy-efficient AC system. Irregular AC inspections/maintenance can result in many undiagnosed issues that lead to higher electric bills. 

The efficiency of your unit is entirely dependent on the functionality of its components. The motor, compressor, blower, vents, coolant, and every other component of your AC requires regular inspection and maintenance. By doing so, you are ensuring optimal efficiency of your AC. Neglecting to service your unit regularly is one of the key reasons that units have to work overtime to meet the desired temperature. This can be the result of leaks, faulty components, clogged or dirty filters, or even congested vents. In order to promote a fully functional unit that operates efficiently, it is imperative to schedule regular maintenance. 

Your Ductwork Requires Inspection

Ducts provide your home with the air temperature desired while expelling unwanted air. These ducts play two of the most important roles in your system. When ducts are clogged, dirty, or damaged, your AC will have to work harder to reach the desired indoor temperature. This often results in increased kilowatt usage and unnecessary costs reflected on your electric bill.

To avoid extra costs, techs recommend annual inspections. Through these inspections, you can ensure that there are no issues with the circulation of air inside them. Homeowners often overlook this crucial requirement, and ultimately results in expensive electric bills.

Need Help? Consult with the Pros!

Getting to the bottom of why your electric bills are becoming more expensive can seem like a daunting task. That’s why at Service Patriots, we do the AC services, inspections, repairs, and installation for you—all in order to provide a unit that does its job well. If you require repairs, or want to learn more about the cost of a new AC unit, contact us today to speak with a qualified specialist! 

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