Are Air Conditioning Units Expensive to run?

Cody Roy Ferguson • August 18, 2025

Is Your Air Conditioner Draining Your Wallet? 
Here’s How to Save Big This Summer

As temperatures climb, air conditioning quickly becomes a necessity—not a luxury. But if you’re noticing skyrocketing energy bills every summer, your AC system could be the main culprit. At FerguSon's Heating & cooling, we believe in keeping you cool without burning through your savings. Let’s break down why your current AC might be costing you more than it should—and what you can do about it.

The True Cost of Running an Old AC Unit
Air conditioners, especially older models, are notorious energy hogs. Units that are 10–15 years old often operate at half the efficiency of modern systems. That means:
  • Higher energy bills month after month
  • Frequent repair costs
  • Poor cooling performance, especially during heatwaves
  • More strain on your home’s electrical system
If your unit is over a decade old, it could be using up to twice the electricity of today’s high-efficiency models.

Why AC Bills Get Out of Control
There are a few key reasons your AC bills might be rising faster than the temperature:
  • Low SEER Rating – Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) measures how efficiently your AC runs. Older units have ratings as low as 8–10 SEER. Today’s systems are required to have at least 14–15 SEER, with high-efficiency options reaching 20+.
  • Poor Maintenance – Dirty filters, clogged coils, and refrigerant leaks can all reduce efficiency.
  • Wrong Size Unit – An AC that’s too small runs constantly, while one that’s too big cycles on and off, wasting energy both ways.
  • Outdated Thermostats – Manual thermostats or basic digital models can’t optimize energy use the way smart thermostats can.
Cost-Effective Ways to Lower Your AC Bills
Before you suffer through another expensive summer, consider these energy-saving tips:
  • Upgrade to a High-Efficiency System 
Replacing your outdated unit with a modern, energy-efficient air conditioner can slash your energy bills by up to 40%. Plus, with manufacturer rebates and energy incentives, the upfront cost may be lower than you think.
  • Install a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats learn your schedule and adjust cooling accordingly, saving energy when you’re not home and keeping you comfortable when you are.
  •  Schedule Regular Maintenance
A well-maintained system runs more efficiently. Our affordable service plans keep your system in peak condition all year round.
  • Seal and Insulate
Proper insulation and sealing air leaks prevent cool air from escaping, reducing the load on your AC.
  • Use Ceiling Fans
They help circulate air more effectively, allowing you to raise your thermostat by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.

Let’s Talk Numbers
Think your old AC is “good enough”? It could be costing you hundreds—if not thousands—more than necessary over its remaining lifespan. 
Let’s run the numbers together. We offer free in-home consultations to show you how much you could save by upgrading.

We’ll help you:
  • Choose the right system size for your home
  • Understand available rebates and financing options
  • Remove your old unit and install your new system quickly and cleanly
  • Set up smart thermostat controls for optimal savings
Call us at (720)-737-6311
By Cody Roy Ferguson August 15, 2025
If you’re a homeowner in Colorado, you know how brutal winters can get — and the last thing you want is for your old furnace to quit in the middle of a snowstorm. Investing in a new high-efficiency furnace is not just a smart move; it’s a long-term investment in comfort, safety, and savings. we’ll break down the top reasons why now is the best time to upgrade your furnace and how your home — and your wallet — will benefit. 1. Stay Warm and Comfortable During Harsh Colorado Winters Winters in Colorado can bring freezing temperatures, especially in areas like Denver, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins. An older furnace might struggle to keep up, leading to cold spots and uneven heating. A modern furnace provides: Faster, more even heat distribution Advanced thermostatic control Quieter operation 2. Lower Your Energy Bills with a High-Efficiency Furnace New furnaces today come with AFUE ratings of 90% or higher, meaning they convert nearly all fuel into usable heat. That can add up to 30% energy savings compared to older models. In Colorado, where heating costs spike during the winter, a new furnace can significantly reduce monthly energy bills. 3. Increase Your Home’s Resale Value A new furnace is a strong selling point for Colorado homebuyers. Whether you’re in Boulder or Pueblo, installing a new heating system adds long-term value and peace of mind for potential buyers. Plus, updated HVAC systems often pass home inspections more smoothly — no red flags for outdated or inefficient equipment. 4. Improve Indoor Air Quality Older furnaces can circulate dust, allergens, and even carbon monoxide if not properly maintained. Newer systems offer advanced filtration and sealed combustion, improving your indoor air quality and family’s health. Especially for homes in higher-elevation areas or those prone to allergies, upgrading your furnace makes a noticeable difference in air quality. 6. Avoid Emergency Repairs When You Need Heat Most Replacing your furnace before it fails saves you the stress of emergency repairs or middle-of-the-night breakdowns. HVAC companies often offer off-season deals or priority scheduling in late summer and early fall — before the winter rush begins. Pro Tip: Don’t wait until your furnace dies — the best time to replace it is before it becomes an emergency .
By Cody Roy Ferguson August 15, 2025
R-454B is the future of air conditioning in Colorado. Learn how upgrading your AC now means better efficiency, lower environmental impact, and long-term compliance with new refrigerant regulations. As the HVAC industry moves toward a cleaner, more energy-efficient future, R-454B air conditioners are leading the charge. With older refrigerants like R-410A being phased down due to environmental regulations, now is the ideal time for Colorado homeowners to consider upgrading to a new R-454B AC system. Whether you live in Denver, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins , or the surrounding areas, investing in an R-454B system can save you money, improve your home’s performance , and futureproof your comfort for years to come. What Is R-454B, and Why Does It Matter? R-454B is a next-generation, low-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerant designed to replace R-410A in residential and light commercial air conditioning systems. It has: 78% lower GWP than R-410A Comparable performance with improved energy efficiency Reduced environmental impact Mild flammability classification (A2L) It’s part of a global shift to more climate-friendly HVAC technologies and is supported by EPA AIM Act regulations and international agreements like the Kigali Amendment . 1. Stay Ahead of Refrigerant Phaseouts R-410A is already being phased down in 2025 , meaning prices will rise, parts will become scarce, and systems that use it will become harder to maintain. By upgrading to an R-454B AC system now, you avoid: Higher maintenance costs Limited replacement parts Regulatory compliance issues 2. Lower Environmental Impact R-454B has a GWP of just 466 , compared to R-410A’s GWP of 2,088 . That makes it one of the most eco-friendly refrigerant options on the market today. Switching helps: Reduce your home’s carbon footprint Support Colorado’s clean energy goals Qualify for potential green building incentives 3. Improve Energy Efficiency and Comfort Many new R-454B systems come paired with high-efficiency heat pumps and variable-speed technology . That means: Lower utility bills Quieter operation Better humidity control Faster cooling during peak summer heat Colorado summers are getting warmer — and this is a smart way to stay cool efficiently. 4. Boost Home Value and Marketability Buyers are increasingly looking for green, future-ready homes . An upgraded HVAC system with R-454B adds real value and shows your home is: Up-to-date with modern standards Energy-efficient and environmentally conscious Free from future refrigerant-related issues Why Choose Us for Your R-454B AC Upgrade? As a local, licensed HVAC company serving Colorado, we: ✅ Specialize in R-454B system installation ✅ Provide expert consultations and honest pricing ✅ Handle permits, rebates, and compliance ✅ Back our work with industry-leading warranties Don’t Wait for R-410A to Be Outlawed — Upgrade Your AC Today With regulations tightening and demand for R-454B systems rising, now is the best time to make the switch. Whether you’re replacing an aging system or building a new home, a R-454B air conditioner is the smartest and most sustainable choice you can make in 2025. 📞 Call today or schedule your free estimate online. (720)-737-6311 Let’s get your home future-ready — before the next Colorado heat wave hits.
By Cody Roy Ferguson August 11, 2025
Is your AC unit frozen? A frozen air conditioner is one of the most common — and frustrating — HVAC problems homeowners face, especially during peak summer heat. You might notice ice on the evaporator coils , poor airflow , or your AC just blowing warm air . The good news? A f rozen AC doesn’t always mean major repairs . But acting quickly is key. As your trusted local HVAC company, we’ve put together this step-by-step guide to help you respond safely and effectively when your air conditioner freezes. Step 1: Turn Off Your AC Immediately The first thing you should do is turn off your air conditioner at the thermostat. Continuing to run it while frozen can: Damage the compressor Waste energy Make the problem worse Set your system to “OFF” and switch the fan to “ON” to help thaw the ice faster. Step 2: Check for Airflow Blockages Poor airflow is one of the top causes of a frozen AC unit. Once your system is off, check for these common airflow issues: ✅ Dirty air filter — Replace it if it’s clogged ✅ Closed or blocked vents — Make sure all supply and return vents are open and unobstructed ✅ Dirty evaporator coil — Excess dust can insulate the coil and cause freezing Pro Tip: If your filter looks like it hasn’t been changed in a while, that could be the culprit. Step 3: Let the Ice Melt Completely Depending on how frozen your AC is, it can take a few hours up to a full day for the ice to thaw. ⚠️ Do not chip away at the ice! This can damage the coils and void your warranty. Speed up the process by: Running the fan only (if safe) Opening nearby windows to improve air circulation Using a box fan to help circulate air near the indoor unit Step 4: Inspect Your Condensate Drain Line While your system is thawing, check the drain pan and condensate line for clogs or standing water . If the line is blocked, it can cause water to back up and freeze around the coil. Signs of a clogged line include: Water around the indoor unit A musty smell Frequent shutdowns Step 5: Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection A frozen AC can be a sign of underlying issues , including: Low refrigerant levels Blower motor problems Dirty or damaged coils Ductwork restrictions Thermostat malfunctions Our certified technicians can diagnose the root cause and get your AC running efficiently again — before it becomes a more expensive repair. Prevent Future Freezing: Pro Maintenance Tips To avoid another frozen AC this summer: ✅ Change your filter every 1–3 months ✅ Schedule seasonal HVAC maintenance ✅ Keep vents open and unobstructed ✅ Don’t set your thermostat too low for long periods ✅ Watch for signs of refrigerant leaks (hissing, low cooling) Need Help With a Frozen AC in Colorado? Don’t suffer in the heat — let our expert HVAC team help. We serve homeowners across Denver, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, and surrounding areas with fast, honest AC repairs and preventive maintenance. 📞 Call now or book an appointment online — we’ll get your home cool again in no time. Bonus Tip: Frozen AC problems are often preventable with regular tune-ups . Ask us about our Seasonal Maintenance Plans and keep your system running at peak performance all year.
By Cody Roy Ferguson August 11, 2025
1. Environmental Impact A2L refrigerants are l ow-GWP refrigerants , meaning they have a drastically reduced potential to contribute to global warming compared to traditional refrigerants like R-410A. R-410A has a GWP of 2,088 . R-32 has a GWP of 675 . R-454B has an even lower GWP of 466 . This makes A2Ls a c limate-conscious choice that supports global and national efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As part of the HFC phasedown under the AIM Act , these refrigerants are a forward-looking solution aligned with environmental regulations. 2. Energy Efficiency = Lower Utility Bills A2L refrigerants, particularly R-32 , are known for their superior thermodynamic efficiency , which means HVAC systems using them often consume less energy to cool or heat your home. R-32 is around 10% more efficient than R-410A. Systems using A2Ls often have higher SEER2 ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). This i ncreased efficiency translates to: Lower monthly energy bills Reduced wear and tear on your HVAC components Less energy waste , benefiting both your wallet and the planet
By Cody Roy Ferguson August 11, 2025
If you're planning to upgrade your HVAC system or replace your air conditioner soon, you may start hearing about a new class of refrigerants called A2L refrigerants, including R-32 and R-454B. These newer refrigerants are becoming the industry standard, and it’s important for homeowners to understand why the change is happening and what it means for your home comfort system. What Are A2L Refrigerants? A2L refrigerants are a new generation of refrigerants that offer lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) compared to older refrigerants like R-410A. The term "A2L" refers to their safety classification: A: Non-toxic 2L: Mildly flammable While the word “flammable” might raise concerns, it’s important to know that A2L refrigerants have been proven safe when used correctly and according to updated building codes and safety regulations. Why Are A2L Refrigerants Replacing R-410A? The HVAC industry is shifting away from high-GWP refrigerants due to environmental regulations and global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. R-410A, the common refrigerant used for the past two decades, has a high GWP of 2,088. In comparison: R-32 has a GWP of 675 (about 68% lower than R-410A) R-454B has a GWP of 466 (about 78% lower than R-410A) This change is part of broader policies such as the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, which mandates a phasedown of HFC refrigerants in the United States.
By Cody Roy Ferguson April 23, 2025
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