Facts About AC Costs in the U.S. (and Tips on Reducing Them)

In the United States, 12% of the energy expenditures of most households go to air conditioning. In hot, humid climates, the number goes up to 27%. Even in a cold country, air conditioning accounts for 5% of overall energy expenses.

Needless to say, Americans can’t live without air conditioning. However, your love for chilled indoor air shouldn’t come at a high price. To keep your AC from blowing your money away, follow the tips below.

Choose the Right AC Size

When planning an air conditioning replacement project, it’s imperative to buy the right kind of cooling equipment. You have two options: central AC systems and individual units. The former are more expensive to install, for they’re simply more costly and

generally require ductwork to distribute the conditioned air.
Portable, window or wall air conditioners, though, cost more to operate. They also use more energy per square foot to cool a space.

This is why you need to pick an air conditioning product that suits the size of your house. If you buy an oversized unit, it will be prone to short-cycling. On the other hand, if you purchase an undersized unit, you’ll constantly struggle to meet your cooling load.

Place a Premium on Regular Maintenance

Preventive maintenance is key to air conditioner longevity. Regular inspections and timely repairs enable ACs to last 40% longer than those that don’t see a technician until they break down.

You shouldn’t DIY the upkeep of your AC, but you are responsible for maintaining the air filter. This component traps air pollutants to protect the sensitive interior parts of the unit. A clogged filter will prevent adequate air from getting into your AC unit, causing it to malfunction.

Utilize Thermostat Programmability

Did you know that having at the very least a programmable thermostat could save you up to $180 annually? Having a device that adjusts temperature settings without human intervention is enough to produce noticeable decreases in your utility bills.

Get Your Air Conditioning Replacement Project Started

Turn to ACS to set your air conditioning replacement project in motion. Call us at (925) 676-2103 to explore your product options and receive a free new installation estimate.

Jennifer P.