Heating and cooling can be a real budget buster. But which costs more? If using both your air conditioner and furnace increase your energy bills, does one cost more than the other? Read these tips to better understand your HVAC costs.
What Affects Energy Costs?
Your heating and cooling costs depend on several factors:
- Geographic Location: Your location plays a significant role. Expect higher heating bills in colder climates and higher cooling costs in warmer climates.
- Seasonal Variation: The time of year matters too. You typically spend more on heating costs in the winter and more on cooling in the summer.
- Energy Efficiency: Your HVAC system works harder to maintain optimal temps if it’s old, worn out, or broken. A well-insulated home with a maintained HVAC system will save you more money on heating and cooling.
- Personal Preferences: Your comfort preferences also influence your energy usage.
- Size of the House: The size of your house matters. A larger space requires more energy to maintain comfortable temperatures.
Heating Generally Costs More
In general, heating a home costs more than cooling it. However, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Several factors can influence whether it’s cheaper to heat or cool your home.
Why Heating Is More Expensive Than Cooling
Energy-Intensive Process
Heating systems work harder by design. Creating warm air requires more energy than removing heat from the air, which is what air conditioners do.
Temperature Differences
The gap between your desired indoor temperature and the outdoor temperature is almost always larger in winter than in summer. In winter, your HVAC system likely runs more frequently and for longer periods. Of course, this does not apply if you live in a tropical climate.
Fuel Costs
Heating systems use various fuels (natural gas, electricity, oil, propane), while air conditioners typically run on electricity. The cost difference between these energy sources can affect your bills.
Energy Efficiency: The Key to Lower Costs
Improving your energy efficiency is the best way to lower you energy bills. To accomplish this, we recommend:
- Regular HVAC Maintenance: Annual tune-ups can improve your HVAC system’s efficiency by up to 15%.
- Upgrading to Energy-Efficient Systems: Modern systems, like variable-speed air conditioners, can reduce energy consumption by up to 30%.
- Smart Thermostats: Programmable thermostats can save you up to 10% annually on heating and cooling costs.
- Sealing Air Leaks: Properly sealed windows, doors, and air ducts can help you save 10-20% on energy costs.
Contact Us to Maximize Your Energy Savings
While national trends show heating is generally more expensive, your specific situation will influence whether it is cheaper to heat or cool your house. Factors like your home’s location, size, insulation, and your personal preferences all play a role.
At Allied Air Conditioning and Heating, we’ve been helping homeowners in north and northwest Chicago suburbs optimize their HVAC systems for over 55 years. Our expert technicians can evaluate your home and provide energy-saving solutions tailored to your needs. Call us today for more information or to schedule a service appointment.
