As temperatures climb here in Wisconsin, there’s no doubt your air conditioner is the MVP of your home. But if your energy bills are spiking or certain rooms just won’t cool down, your HVAC system could be working harder than it needs to.
While we all want to stay cool and comfortable this summer, an overworked or inefficient air conditioning unit can result in higher energy bills and more wear and tear on your HVAC system than necessary.
Let’s explore a few of the common signs of HVAC inefficiencies and how Martens Heating & Cooling can help you stay comfortable and save money.
Spot the Signs of an Inefficient HVAC System
Many of our customers here in the Fox Cities don’t realize there’s an issue until their AC unit breaks down or they get a bill that’s way higher than expected.
”Small problems and minor inconveniences can turn into big emergency repair costs and potentially long down times during peak season. If something with your HVAC system doesn’t feel right, it’s important to be proactive,” said Jason Martens, owner of Martens Heating & Cooling.
These signs can help you detect an inefficient AC unit or other issues early:
Uneven Cooling
Some rooms are icy, others warm? Your home should have an even, comfortable cool. Uneven cooling is often a sign of airflow issues or leaky ductwork in your home.
Longer Cooling Cycles
Does your AC run for a long period of time without really cooling things down? An AC unit that constantly runs and has long cooling cycles can indicate poor insulation, dirty filters, or even an undersized unit for the size of your home.
Loud Or Whistling Vents
A lot of noise is usually a key indicator that something might be wrong. Whistling sounds, in particular, can indicate that your ductwork is too small or restrictive, which is putting strain on your system.
Dusty Home Despite Regular Cleaning
If you’re experiencing more dust around your home than usual or a musty smell, it may be due to poor filtration or leaky ducts. This can often be hard to notice because many families attribute the mess to pets, kids, or tracking dust in from outside during the summer months.
Older Unit
If your HVAC system is more than 10 years old, it might be time for an upgrade. Even if things are technically still working and keeping your home cool, newer AC units are naturally more efficient. You want to make sure you’re taking advantage of potential savings!
Summer Energy-Saving Tips for Wisconsin Homeowners
Before you crank the thermostat even lower, try these efficiency hacks to help beat the heat and reduce strain on your home’s HVAC system.
Use a Programmable Or Smart Thermostat
Whenever possible, set schedules so your AC isn’t cooling an empty home. Smart thermostats are especially beneficial in the summer months, as schedules tend to be less predictable, and many Wisconsinites leave for extended periods to head up north or go on summer vacation.
Replace or Clean Air Filters Monthly
This simple habit can have a big impact on overall AC efficiency. Clean filters maintain strong airflow and reduce energy waste throughout the summer and all year round. If you’re a pet owner or have allergies, replacing your filter is even more important.
Close Blinds During Peak Heat Hours
We love the sunshine, but direct sunlight can quickly raise the temperature in your home. Closing blinds or using UV-blocking shades can keep you and your family cooler without having to rely on or adjust the AC.
Seal leaks and insulate
Gaps around your doors, windows, and ducts let cold air escape and hot air enter. Properly sealing and insulating your Fox Cities home keeps the cool air where it belongs—inside your home!
HVAC Upgrades that Pay Off
If you started with a self-check but your system still seems to be struggling, it might be time for a deeper look. That’s where Martens Heating & Cooling comes in.
As a leading HVAC company serving Appleton, Oshkosh, Neenah, and the surrounding Fox Cities area, our contractors can help you find the right AC efficiency upgrades for your Wisconsin home.
We offer:
Ductwork Modifications
Many homes—especially older ones here in the Fox Cities area—have inefficient or poorly designed ductwork. Our team can evaluate airflow and recommend updates that reduce energy loss, improve temperature balance, and reduce your utility bills.
System Assessments
Not sure if your current AC is the right size for your home? Hearing a funny noise? We’ll run a full system evaluation, measuring performance, age, and efficiency to guide your next steps, whether that’s a repair or replacement.
Energy-Efficient HVAC Upgrades
Upgrading a 10-15 year old HVAC system to a high-efficiency system can lead to significant cost savings, primarily through reduced energy consumption. New, energy-efficient systems can lower heating and cooling bills by up to 20%. We’ll help you find the right system for your home, including mini-splits and ductless air conditioning solutions.
Stay Cool All Summer Long
Don’t wait until your system fails during a major Wisconsin heatwave. Suppose you notice any of these signs of inefficient air conditioners. In that case, Martens Heating & Cooling offers seasonal air conditioner repair, maintenance, and replacement in the Fox Cities to help you identify issues before they become costly problems.
Schedule an assessment to take the first step toward a more efficient, comfortable summer.