Roughly 75% of homes in the US have air conditioning. These consume about 7% of the energy produced in the US which translates to approximately $30 billion annually in energy expenses for homeowners.
To mitigate this, various manufacturers have come up with energy-efficient air conditioning systems. Moreover, the government has specific policies on energy-efficient ratings for air conditioners. Buying a unit with a 90-98% AFUE rating does not however automatically mean decreased energy costs.
Without prompt air conditioning repair for some components of your unit, your property in Largo, FL, will still contend with high energy costs. This is because a breakdown of these components will affect your unit’s operation and consequently energy consumption.
The following are the standard air conditioning malfunctions which cause increased energy consumption.
Dirty Air Filters
The air filters in your unit keep its interior components debris and dirt-free. Without their proper maintenance and periodic professional cleaning, so much debris accumulates on the filters which restrict airflow throughout the ductwork.
This restricted airflow means that it will take a longer time to heat or cool your indoor air. The increased run time of your HVAC system translates to an increased energy cost owing to the overheating of your compressor and motors. The best choice is to change your replaceable air filters at least quarterly to guarantee their optimal operation and clean the reusable filters quarterly.
Leaking Ducts
Ductwork plays a key role in your air conditioner’s efficacy since it enables the distribution of conditioned air throughout your property. Leaks at any point in your ductwork will affect the distribution of air and thus cause the wrong thermostat reading.
This means the thermostat reading causes your unit to run longer and harder to achieve a desired indoor ambiance and therefore increases your heating and cooling expenses.
Low Refrigerant
Heat pumps and air conditioners use coolant to transfer or remove heat from your indoors. The common types of refrigerant used are r-410a Puron and 2-22 Freon.
A low refrigerant level affects the removal or increase of heat in your interiors and affects the satisfaction of your thermostat reading. The most common cause of low AC refrigerant levels is a leak.
Failed Condenser Motors
The failure of different components results in an eventual increase in the AC’s energy consumption but not as fast a condenser motor’s failure will. A failed condenser motor will struggle to remove the heat in your indoors and cause the wrong thermostat reading.
The incorrect reading, in turn, causes the motor to run harder and longer than it should and increase your unit’s energy consumption. This overworking of an already compromised condenser motor also causes its complete breakdown within a few days and shutdown of your entire air conditioning system.
It is common for homeowners to point to appliances other than their air conditioning unit when faced with increasing energy costs. Lowering your property’s energy bills might however be as simple as getting the above air conditioning issues professionally repaired immediately you notice an unexplained high energy bill. This way, you can enjoy a comfortable indoor environment with little thought to the effect of your comfort on your monthly budget.
