Energy bills are skyrocketing this summer in Muncy, PA, and your old air conditioner may be to blame. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, nearly 30% of home cooling energy is wasted due to inefficient systems. In 2024, U.S. households spent a record-breaking $32 billion on air conditioning. As temperatures continue to climb, taking action before wasteful cooling drains your wallet even more is critical. Here’s how to boost cooling efficiency to save money this summer and beyond.
Know How Much Energy You’re Wasting
The average central air conditioner in America is over 10 years old, and many are rated at SEER 10 or lower. In comparison, modern ENERGY STAR air conditioners operate at SEER 16 or higher, cutting energy use by 30% or more.
In 2024, the International Energy Agency reported that global cooling demand jumped 6% compared to 2023, pushing utility costs even higher. If your AC system hasn’t been upgraded, you’re likely paying for cold air that never reaches your living space.
Seal and Insulate to Keep Cool Air Inside
Air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork are silent culprits of energy loss. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency found that sealing and insulating can improve cooling efficiency by up to 20%. Replacing worn-out weather stripping or adding attic insulation is a low-cost way for Muncy, PA, homeowners to reduce their cooling bills immediately.
Use Smart Thermostats and Fans Wisely
Setting your thermostat to 78°F when at home and 85°F when away can cut cooling costs by 10%. In addition, ceiling fans cost less than $0.01 per hour to operate and can make rooms feel 4°F cooler, reducing the need to overwork your AC system. Smart thermostats can automate these settings, ensuring maximum savings with minimal effort.
Upgrade to a High-Efficiency Cooling System
ENERGY STAR-rated ductless mini-splits and high-SEER central AC systems can reduce energy use by over 25%. In 2024, federal tax credits and rebates for qualified HVAC upgrades have made upgrading more affordable than ever. Investing in efficient technology now means lower bills all summer and for years to come in Muncy’s increasingly hot climate.
Optimize your air conditioner’s performance by giving it a mid-summer checkup. Contact Air Management Technologies, Inc. for help boosting your cooling efficiency so that you can save more money for the rest of this summer.
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