For many households, the electric utility bills skyrocket during summer because of the cost of running an air conditioner. To address this issue, April’s Country Air Heating & Cooling in Bolivar, MO, discusses some of the truths and fictions surrounding the cost of air conditioning. The information below should help you reduce your utility bills and avoid AC repairs this summer.

Facts

A central air unit will typically last for 12 to 15 years if properly cared for. Yearly inspections and maintenance by a qualified AC repair technician are essential to efficient operation. Belts must be replaced when worn, motors need to be oiled, and filters should be replaced every 60 to 90 days, or more frequently if you smoke or have pets. These tasks help the unit operate efficiently and reduce operating expenses. They also extend the life of the air conditioner and further reduce the long-term cost of keeping cool.

Fictions

One persistent myth about air conditioning is that you can dramatically reduce costs by shutting off the AC while you're at work. In fact, this just makes the air conditioner work harder and longer to reduce temperatures and re-condition the air once you return. You gain no economic benefit but must endure an uncomfortable house for a time.

Another myth is that installing a less powerful air conditioner will help you use less energy. The truth is that an AC unit that is too small wastes nearly as much money as one that is too powerful. The smaller unit must work harder to keep you cool, meaning it will run longer and wear out more quickly. Your AC repair and installation service team will properly size the air conditioner to fit the cubic footage of your home.

The above facts and fictions about air conditioning costs should help you operate yours more economically. If it needs maintenance or repairs, contact April’s Country Air Heating & Cooling. They've served Polk County and beyond for more than two decades and can help your family stay comfortable year-round. Visit their website to send them a message, or call (417) 326-2771 to schedule AC repairs.