The Number One Mistake That Is Spiking Your Summer Energy Bill

As summer approaches, many Romanians are bracing for higher electricity bills.

The heat brings discomfort, and the most common solution is air conditioning.

But this comfort comes with a cost. A single air conditioner can use a surprising amount of electricity. It might even be the reason your bill suddenly jumps.

An 18,000 BTU air conditioner, which is fairly common, uses about as much power as 560 energy-saving light bulbs turned on at the same time, writes Ziare.

That kind of usage can make a real dent in your wallet. If the AC runs every day, the monthly cost can reach between 310 and 516 lei, depending on the model and how long it’s on.

Most household air conditioners fall in the 12,000 to 18,000 BTU range.

These units usually consume between 1.5 and 2.5 kilowatt-hours (kWh) for every hour they run.

If you let one run for 8 hours a day, it can use as much as 20 kWh in a single day.

In comparison, a fridge only uses between 30 and 60 kWh in an entire month.

So what can you do to keep cool without breaking the bank?

First, think about upgrading your unit. Newer air conditioners with A++ or A+++ energy ratings are more efficient and use less power.

Second, always use the eco or automatic mode if it’s available. These settings help the AC work smarter, not harder.

Third, try to set the temperature at 23 degrees Celsius or higher. The difference between inside and outside doesn’t need to be extreme to feel comfortable.

And don’t forget the basics. Close all doors and windows while the air conditioner is running.

Letting warm air in makes the unit work harder, which means it uses more energy.

Small changes like these can make a big difference by the end of the month.

You’ll stay cool. Your home will feel better. And your energy bill won’t be such a shock.