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Cooling Costs Rising? Let’s Find Out What’s Wrong

money-blown-around-in-air

When you think about calling an HVAC contractor in Fresno, is an AC emergency repair that first thing that comes to mind? It is for most homeowners: when their air conditioning systems fail or won’t keep them cool enough, it’s time to call professionals for repairs. 

And, of course, that’s what our team at Purl’s is here to do! But we would also like to help you out when the situation with your AC doesn’t seem as drastic. What if you’ve noticed that you’re paying more to cool your house than normal? You might shrug it off as the “AC getting older,” but this is often a good reason to call for repair pros.

Your AC’s Efficiency and Its Age

It’s true that an air conditioning system will wear down with age, and this will cause it to use more energy than before. However, you can reduce this decline in efficiency if you have the air conditioning system regularly maintained. If you are keeping current with annual maintenance, then you should only expect to see a rise in cooling if the air conditioner is coming to the end of its service life—or if the AC has a malfunction that can be repaired. 

Possible AC Problems That Will Lead to Higher Cooling Costs

If you got an AC that isn’t losing its efficiency due to advanced age, there are several possible reasons for a rise the cost to run it:

  • Clogged air filter: A dirty air filter restricts airflow, making your AC work harder. This not only increases your energy bills but may also cause the system to overheat and shut down.
  • Refrigerant leaks: Low refrigerant levels due to leaks reduce your AC’s ability to cool effectively, leading to longer run times and higher energy consumption. 
  • Dirty condenser coils: The outdoor unit’s condenser coils can accumulate dirt and debris, impeding heat transfer and forcing your AC to run longer to achieve the desired temperature.
  • Faulty thermostat: A malfunctioning thermostat might not correctly signal the AC to turn on or off, causing irregular cooling cycles that waste energy.
  • Leaky ductwork: Holes or gaps in your ductwork can allow cool air to escape before it reaches the rooms in your home, making your AC work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.
  • Worn-out components: Parts like the blower motor, capacitor, or fan blades can wear out over time, causing the system to operate less efficiently and use more energy.

Rely on Purl’s to Get Your AC Back in Shape

Don’t let rising cooling costs stress you out. If you address these common issues with the help of a professional, it can help save you money by not only lowering your utility bills but by extending the life of your AC. So if you’re experiencing higher cooling bills and don’t know why, reach out to us—our experienced technicians will diagnose and fix any problems, ensuring your AC runs efficiently.

Contact Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning. Uncompromised Quality & Customer Service Since 1952. 

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