As summer approaches here in Gresham, it's the perfect time to look forward to city-wide events like the Arts Festival, family get-togethers, and spontaneous BBQs with the neighbors. With so much company and a constantly revolving door, summer also brings higher energy bills as your air conditioning system works overtime to keep your home cool. Many homeowners face the frustration of their electric bills skyrocketing during these months, sometimes costing hundreds more than in the
winter.
We’ve all been faced with electric bills that can soar, sometimes $500 or beyond, which can leave you questioning if you want AC at all during these hot months.
But did you know that leaving your AC on all summer, even when you’re not home, can actually save you money?
It might sound counterintuitive, but maintaining a consistent indoor temperature can significantly reduce your energy consumption and overall costs. Our team at A&E Plumbing, Heating and Air understands the importance of an efficient HVAC system, especially during the peak of Oregon’s summer heat.
Navigating the complexities of HVAC systems and finding cost-effective solutions can be overwhelming, especially for homeowners without technical expertise. With over 16 years of experience serving the Gresham area, our technicians are well-equipped to provide top-notch advice and service, ensuring your HVAC system is ready to handle the demands of summer.
In this article, we’ll explain how keeping your AC on all summer can lead to substantial savings, why this approach works, and practical tips to maximize efficiency and comfort in your home. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to keep your energy bills under control while enjoying a cool, comfortable summer.
How Keeping Your AC On Saves Money
Consistent Temperature Maintenance
Gresham summers can bring temperatures that routinely climb to 100 degrees or higher, causing homes to heat up quickly. Maintaining a steady temperature in your home prevents it from becoming excessively hot during the day.
If you turn off your AC while you're out, your home heats up, forcing your system to work much harder and longer to cool it down when you return. This process consumes a significant amount of energy.
By keeping your AC on at a consistent temperature, you avoid these large temperature swings, allowing it to operate more efficiently and reducing overall energy consumption.
Reducing Humidity Levels
The Pacific Northwest, including Gresham, can experience varying humidity levels in the summer. Running your AC consistently helps keep your home’s
general humidity levels low.
High humidity can make your home feel warmer and force your AC to work harder to remove moisture from the air. Lower humidity levels create a more comfortable environment and reduce the load on your AC system, enhancing its efficiency and helping you save on energy costs.
How ACs Work
Air conditioning systems cool your home by removing heat and moisture from the air, a process critical in high-humidity areas like Gresham especially. The AC unit pulls warm air from inside the home, passes it over the evaporator coil containing refrigerant to absorb heat, and condenses moisture, which is then drained away. This dual action lowers both temperature and humidity, making the air feel cooler and more comfortable.
Lower humidity reduces the AC's workload, enhancing efficiency and saving on energy costs. Additionally, managing humidity prevents mold growth and extends the lifespan of the AC system. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, adjusting the thermostat even slightly can lead to significant energy savings, approximately 3-5% per degree, by reducing the energy needed for both cooling and dehumidification.
3 Smart AC Strategies for Gresham Homes to Save Money
1. Thermodynamic Efficiency
HVAC systems are most efficient when they operate in a steady state. In Gresham, where summer temperatures can fluctuate significantly, rapidly changing indoor temperatures force your HVAC system to work harder and consume more energy.
Maintaining a constant temperature allows your system to run at its most efficient, saving energy and reducing costs. This steady operation is particularly beneficial in Gresham's variable summer climate, where consistent cooling can help manage indoor comfort more effectively.
2. Avoiding Gresham’s Peak Energy Rates
Gresham residents often face higher energy rates during peak usage times, which typically occur when people return home and turn on their ACs.
By keeping your AC running at a lower level throughout the day, you can avoid these peak energy rates and reduce your overall costs. Local utility companies in Gresham often charge more during these peak hours, so a steady AC operation can lead to significant savings on your electric bill.
3. Smart Thermostat Utilization
Using a programmable or smart thermostat in your Gresham home allows you to set a schedule that keeps the temperature constant but adjusts slightly
when you're away.
For instance, setting the temperature a few degrees higher when you’re not home but still running the AC can keep energy usage efficient while saving costs. Smart thermostats can adapt to your routine and the local climate, providing a tailored approach to maintaining comfort and efficiency in Gresham's unique weather conditions.
3 Practical Tips for Maximizing AC Savings
1. Set a Reasonable Temperature
During the summer, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F (26°C) when you are home and a bit higher when you are away.
You might read that number and think that's crazy -- don't worry, we're warm blooded, too! Although 78 is the USDE rating, if you were to keep it at a standing temp of 72 degrees, you could expect a difference of approximately $80 a month.
2. Use Fans and Ventilation
Ceiling fans and other ventilation methods can help circulate the cool air more
effectively, allowing you to set the thermostat slightly higher while maintaining comfort. Fans create a wind-chill effect, making you feel cooler without actually lowering the temperature.
3. Regular Maintenance
Ensure your AC system is well-maintained with clean filters and regular check-ups. An efficient system uses less energy and cools your home more effectively. Scheduling regular maintenance checks can also help identify and fix issues before they become major problems, saving you money in the long run.
A&E's Comfort Club Maintenance Program, designed to save money during even the hottest summer months, was created with you in mind. By offering discounts on air filters and labor and routine maintenance services, you can keep your HVAC system running at peak efficiency and guarantee your home stays comfortable throughout the summer without the high bills.
How A&E Can Prepare You for a Comfortable and Cost-Efficient Gresham Summer
Maintaining a steady indoor temperature by keeping your AC on all the time helps your HVAC system operate efficiently, avoiding the high energy consumption associated with large temperature swings. This approach is particularly beneficial in Gresham's variable summer climate. Additionally, using a smart thermostat and
keeping your home’s humidity levels in check can enhance comfort and reduce costs.
We understand that managing your HVAC system can be challenging, especially without technical expertise. Our team at A&E Plumbing, Heating and Air is dedicated to helping Gresham residents navigate these complexities. Even if you choose not to work with us, ensuring your AC is well-maintained is crucial for peak efficiency and cost savings.
To ensure you're making the best choice for your HVAC needs, we recommend reading our article on the top 10 questions to ask your next HVAC partner. This will equip you with the knowledge to find the right professional for your home, helping you enjoy a comfortable and energy-efficient summer.
