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Why Your Electric Bill Spikes in Georgia Summers (And How to Fix It)

Spring, summer, and even early fall in coastal Georgia is certain to bring heat AND humidity, which takes a toll on our air conditioning systems. This perfect storm of conditions can send your energy bills through the roof and Golden Isles residents are all too familiar with this feeling. After 25 years of serving families throughout southeast Georgia, we are here to answer your questions as to why this happens and what you can do to prevent it.

Here are some regional challenges that make cooling costs particularly brutal:

  • Extreme Heat and Humidity: Southeast Georgia regularly experiences temperatures in the mid-90s with heat indices reaching 105°F or higher. But it’s not just the heat that takes a toll in our systems and our bodies, it’s the crushing humidity that makes your air conditioning work overtime. When humidity levels climb above 70%, your AC has to work much harder to remove moisture from the air while also cooling it.
  • Extended Cooling Season: Unlike northern states where summer might last three months, our cooling season stretches from April through October. That’s six months of heavy AC usage, with peak demand lasting from June through September.
  • Coastal Climate Factors: Living near the coast means dealing with salt air and moisture that can affect your HVAC system’s efficiency. The constant humidity puts additional strain on your equipment, making it work harder to maintain comfortable indoor conditions.

Understanding your summer energy usage starts with knowing where those kilowatt-hours are being consumed. In a typical Georgia home during summer, your air conditioning system accounts for 60-70% of your total electric bill. That’s not surprising when you consider that your AC might run 12-16 hours per day during peak summer months.

The second biggest culprit is often your water heater, which works harder in summer as it fights against higher ambient temperatures in garages, basements, or utility rooms. Appliances like refrigerators and freezers also consume more energy as they work to maintain cool temperatures in hot environments.

Over the years, we’ve identified several common issues that can double or triple your cooling costs without you even realizing it:

Dirty Air Filters: A clogged filter forces your system to work 15-20% harder. In Georgia’s dusty, pollen-heavy environment, filters can become severely restricted in just 30-60 days instead of the typical 90 days recommended by manufacturers.

Ductwork Problems: Leaky or poorly insulated ducts can waste 20-40% of your cooled air before it reaches your living spaces. We frequently find ducts in hot attics or crawl spaces that are essentially air conditioners for spaces you don’t even use.

Aging Equipment: An air conditioning system that’s 10-15 years old can be 30-50% less efficient than newer models. If your system is struggling to keep up, it’s likely running constantly, driving up your bills while failing to keep you comfortable.

Thermostat Issues: Poorly calibrated or incorrectly programmed thermostats can cause your system to overcool or run unnecessarily. Even a thermostat that’s off by just 2-3 degrees can significantly impact your energy costs.

Immediate Steps to Lower Your Bills

The good news is that you can start reducing your energy costs right away.

Optimize Your Thermostat Settings: Set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and 82-85°F when you’re away. Every degree higher can save you 6-8% on your cooling costs. Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat that can automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule.

Improve Your Home’s Envelope: Seal air leaks around windows and doors. Ensure your attic insulation meets current standards (R-38 to R-60 for Georgia). These improvements can reduce your cooling load by 10-30%.

Maintain Your System: Change air filters monthly during peak season, keep outdoor units clear of debris and vegetation, and ensure vents aren’t blocked by furniture or curtains. These simple maintenance tasks can improve efficiency by 15-25%.

Use Fans Strategically: Ceiling fans allow you to raise your thermostat setting by 3-4 degrees while maintaining the same comfort level. Just remember to turn them off when you leave the room—fans cool people, not spaces.

When to Call the Professionals

While homeowner maintenance is important, some issues require professional attention. If you notice your system running constantly but failing to reach the set temperature, any unusual noises or odors, frequent cycling on and off, or ice formation on your indoor or outdoor unit, it’s best to call an HVAC technician like the team at Air Concepts.

Air Concepts offers routine maintenance that checks refrigerant levels, electrical connections, and ductwork and also cleans coils, calibrates thermostats, and more. This service is completed twice a year to stay ahead of upkeep and extend the life of systems. A well-maintained system operates more efficiently than one that’s neglected. We can also spot potential issues before they turn into a financial nightmare.

Georgia summers will always be hot and humid, but your electric bills don’t have to break the bank. With proper maintenance, these simple tricks, and possibly investing in a smart thermostat or newer unit, most homeowners can reduce their summer cooling costs dramatically. After two and a half decades of helping Golden Isles families stay comfortable while controlling costs, we’ve seen firsthand how the right approach can transform both your comfort and your budget. The key is being proactive.