{"id":3703,"date":"2025-05-19T11:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-05-19T15:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.saddlebackplumbing.com\/blog\/?p=3703"},"modified":"2025-05-23T13:44:47","modified_gmt":"2025-05-23T17:44:47","slug":"learn-about-energy-consumption-and-ways-to-save-money-this-season","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.saddlebackplumbing.com\/blog\/air-conditioning-service\/learn-about-energy-consumption-and-ways-to-save-money-this-season\/","title":{"rendered":"Learn About Energy Consumption and Ways to Save Money This Season"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Energy consumption can spike during the warmer months\u2014especially in inland areas like Anaheim and Irvine where summer temperatures often soar well above coastal averages. Air conditioning is a lifeline for comfort during these hotter days. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Yet it also becomes one of the most significant contributors to your utility bills. Understanding what factors affect your AC energy usage and learning how to improve your system\u2019s efficiency can help you stay comfortable and save money all season long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"This<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Factors Affecting AC Energy Usage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Several key factors influence how much energy your air conditioner uses\u2014and knowing what they are can help you make smarter decisions about your cooling strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Climate & Weather<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

While Orange County is known for its relatively mild coastal climate, inland cities experience intense summer heat. As temperatures and humidity rise, your air conditioning system must work harder and longer to maintain your preferred indoor temperature. This increases electricity usage, especially during prolonged heatwaves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Home Size & Insulation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The larger your home, the more air there is to cool. And if your home lacks proper insulation or has air leaks, your AC system must work overtime to maintain your desired comfort level. Older homes in particular may not have modern sealing or insulation, leading to inefficient cooling and energy waste.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. AC System Type & Age<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Not all air conditioners are created equal. Central AC systems typically consume more energy than ductless mini-splits or window units. Additionally, systems that are 10 years or older are significantly less efficient than newer models\u2014especially those rated with SEER 16+ or the ENERGY STAR label.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Thermostat Settings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A lower thermostat setting doesn\u2019t cool your home faster; it just makes your AC run longer. For every degree below 78\u00b0F you set your thermostat, your energy consumption rises by 6\u20138%. Southern California Edison recommends setting your thermostat to 78\u00b0F when you’re home and 85\u00b0F when you’re away to maximize savings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Usage Patterns<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Leaving your AC running all day without adjustments can lead to high utility bills. Keeping windows or doors open while the system is running allows cool air to escape and warm air to enter, forcing your system to work harder than necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Ductwork Condition<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Leaky or poorly insulated ducts can waste up to 30% of your cooled air. Ensuring your ductwork is properly sealed and insulated is critical for system performance and energy efficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tips for Improving AC Efficiency<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Making small changes to how you use your AC system can result in significant savings over the course of a single summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n