Understanding Your Energy Costs
Cooling can represent a substantial part of a San Antonio home's summer energy use. A higher bill can reflect equipment condition, home construction, thermostat settings, usage, weather, or changing energy rates.
Common Causes of High Bills
- Dirty air filters: Restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder
- Refrigerant leaks: Low refrigerant means less cooling capacity
- Aging equipment: Older systems lose efficiency over time
- Poor insulation: Conditioned air escaping through gaps
- Thermostat issues: Incorrect settings or malfunctioning sensors
DIY Steps to Lower Your Bills
- Replace air filters monthly during summer
- Set thermostat to 78°F when home, 82-85°F when away
- Use ceiling fans for comfort while occupied
- Close blinds on sun-facing windows during the day
- Seal air leaks around windows and doors
When to Consider a New System
If your system is older, requires frequent repairs, or uses R-22 refrigerant, schedule professional HVAC maintenance to assess its condition. If replacement is appropriate, review our AC installation options. Results vary based on equipment condition, home construction, usage, weather, and energy rates.