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Is It More Expensive to Run Heating or Air Conditioning?
Quick Answer: Heating often costs more than air conditioning in O’Fallon because winter temperatures can be much farther from the desired indoor temperature. However, the actual cost depends on the weather, equipment efficiency, energy source, utility rates, insulation, and thermostat settings.
No matter what time of year it is in O’Fallon, MO, you will probably need to run either your furnace or your air conditioner. Both systems increase household energy use, but one may cost considerably more depending on the season and your equipment.
Understanding what affects heating and cooling costs can help you improve efficiency, reduce unnecessary energy use, and keep your home comfortable throughout the year.
Does Heating or Air Conditioning Cost More?
Heating often costs more than air conditioning in climates like O’Fallon, but this is not true for every home. Your total cost depends on several factors, including:
- The outdoor temperature
- Your thermostat setting
- The size and efficiency of your HVAC equipment
- Whether your heating system uses gas, electricity, or another fuel
- Local electricity and natural gas rates
- Your home’s insulation and air sealing
Many homeowners maintain an indoor temperature between approximately 68 and 75 degrees. During summer, the outdoor temperature may be 20 or 30 degrees warmer than the desired indoor temperature. During winter, outdoor temperatures can fall much farther below the thermostat setting.
That larger temperature difference may require a heating system to operate longer and use more energy. However, an efficient gas furnace may still cost less to operate than electric resistance heat, while an efficient heat pump may use less energy than either option during moderate weather.
The condition of the equipment also matters. A poorly maintained air conditioner or furnace may run longer than necessary, increasing energy costs regardless of the season.
How to Lower Your Cooling Costs
There are several ways to keep your home comfortable while controlling summer energy costs. Combining multiple improvements will usually provide better results than relying on a single change.
Adjust the Thermostat
Raise your thermostat when you are away from home or asleep and do not require as much cooling. According to Department of Energy guidance, adjusting the thermostat by 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours a day may save as much as 10% per year on heating and cooling.
A programmable or smart thermostat can automatically adjust temperatures according to your household’s schedule. This helps reduce cooling while the home is unoccupied without requiring you to remember each adjustment.
Limit Indoor Heat
Appliances such as ovens, dryers, and dishwashers can add heat to your home. When possible, use them during cooler evening hours instead of during the hottest part of the day.
Close curtains or blinds when direct sunlight is entering through the windows. At night, when outdoor temperatures are cooler and humidity conditions allow, opening windows may help ventilate the home without relying entirely on the air conditioner.
Seal Air Leaks
Gaps around windows, doors, attic access points, and other openings allow cooled air to escape. Sealing these areas helps the air conditioner maintain the desired temperature without running as frequently.
Also inspect visible ductwork for loose connections or damage. Leaking ducts can release conditioned air into attics, crawlspaces, and other areas before it reaches your living spaces.
How to Lower Your Heating Costs
Many of the same improvements that lower cooling costs can also reduce winter heating expenses.
Check windows and exterior doors for drafts. Weatherstripping and caulk can help close small gaps and keep heated air inside. Window insulation film may provide additional protection during colder months, especially around older windows.
Open curtains during sunny winter days to allow natural warmth into the home. Close them after sunset to reduce heat loss through the windows.
You can also lower the thermostat slightly while sleeping or away from home. A programmable thermostat can handle these adjustments automatically and restore the preferred temperature before you wake up or return.
Insulation is another important consideration. Inadequate attic insulation allows heated air to escape through the upper portion of the home. A home energy assessment can help identify insulation gaps, air leaks, duct problems, and other sources of energy waste.
Maintain Your Heating and Cooling Systems
Keeping your equipment in good working condition is essential for controlling heating and cooling costs. A system that is dirty, damaged, or poorly calibrated may run longer while providing less comfort.
Schedule heating service before winter and annual AC maintenance service before the primary cooling season. Preventive service gives a technician an opportunity to identify worn components and performance problems before they cause a breakdown.
Common HVAC maintenance tasks may include:
- Inspecting and cleaning the condenser and evaporator coils
- Checking or replacing the air filter
- Inspecting accessible ductwork for leaks
- Cleaning the blower assembly
- Checking the condensate drainage system
- Testing electrical connections
- Calibrating the thermostat
- Verifying safe and efficient system operation
Homeowners should also inspect their filters regularly between professional appointments. A clogged filter restricts airflow and may cause the HVAC system to work harder than necessary.
When Does a High Energy Bill Indicate an HVAC Problem?
Energy costs naturally fluctuate with the weather, but an unexplained increase may indicate that the heating or cooling system is losing efficiency.
Potential warning signs include:
- The system runs almost constantly
- Some rooms remain warmer or colder than others
- Airflow from the vents is weak
- The system cycles on and off frequently
- The equipment produces unusual noises or odors
- The home no longer reaches the thermostat setting
Compare bills from the same season rather than comparing a mild spring month with the middle of summer or winter. If energy use rises significantly without a corresponding weather change, an HVAC inspection may help identify the cause.
Heating and Air Conditioning Cost FAQs
Can AC Problems Increase My Electricity Bill?
Yes. Dirty coils, restricted airflow, leaking refrigerant, damaged components, and thermostat problems can cause an air conditioner to operate longer than necessary. Scheduling professional AC repair services can correct the underlying problem and help restore efficient operation.
HVAC Help in O’Fallon
If your utility bills are increasing while your comfort is decreasing, Hoff Heating & AC can inspect your heating and cooling systems and determine whether maintenance or repairs are needed. Our team serves homeowners in O’Fallon and surrounding Missouri communities.
