High Energy Consumption
Are you noticing a change in your electric bill this year? There could be many reasons why your electric bill is increasing, and your HVAC system might be one of them. We recommend checking your system and addressing any issues that could be costing you money each month—or contact us to schedule a maintenance service.
Here are some common causes of increased energy consumption in HVAC systems:
Dirty Filters:
Air filters keep your home’s air handler, ducting, and indoor coil clean. When filters aren’t replaced routinely, debris builds up, restricting airflow through your ductwork. This restricted airflow causes your system to take longer to cool or heat your home, leading to increased run times, overheating motors, and higher electric bills.
Duct Leakage:
Your ductwork distributes air throughout your home and plays a critical role in system efficiency. Leaks in the ductwork reduce your system’s ability to circulate air and satisfy your thermostat. If your system has to run harder and longer to achieve less, you’ll see a spike in your energy bills. Proper airflow is vital for maintaining a healthy, efficient system.
Refrigerant Shortage:
Air conditioners and heat pumps rely on refrigerants to transfer heat and remove it from your home. A refrigerant shortage prevents the system from removing heat efficiently, causing it to work harder and consume more energy. Low refrigerant levels often indicate a leak in the coils or line sets, which requires professional service to diagnose and repair.
Neglected Equipment:
Routine maintenance by an HVAC expert helps ensure your system is running efficiently and prevents costly breakdowns. Regular maintenance can identify potential problems, such as dirty coils, failing components, or duct sealing issues, and address them before they impact your energy bills.
Age of the System:
Older air conditioners are often less efficient, especially if they were installed 15+ years ago when SEER ratings were much lower. Years of wear and tear under the hot Colorado sun without proper maintenance can also make older systems expensive to operate. In some cases, replacing an older system is more cost-effective than frequent repairs.
Poor Installation:
Improper installation can lead to issues like short cycling, where the system turns on and off too frequently, consuming more energy at startup. Other problems may include poor duct sealing, bad electrical connections, or missing parts. A bad installation not only increases energy bills but can also lead to frequent and frustrating breakdowns.
Once your HVAC system is in working condition, we highly recommend scheduling regular maintenance or joining The Tenminds Plan. With this plan, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing your equipment is professionally inspected and maintained annually—keeping your home or business comfortable year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions About High Energy Consumption
Your HVAC system is a complex machine with many components. When one part starts to wear out, it puts strain on the rest of the system, forcing it to work harder and consume more energy—resulting in higher electricity bills.
An air conditioning unit may cost $5.17 to $5.94 per day to run, or roughly $155–$178 per month
Signs include increased utility bills, inconsistent temperatures, a constantly running system, frequent repairs, excessive humidity, lack of maintenance, or an air conditioner that’s over 10 years old.
The compressor is the primary source of energy consumption in an HVAC system.
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