HONOLULU (KHON2) — You may have noticed higher energy bills as temperatures ramp up for the summer. Routine maintenance on your AC unit can help keep your bills low.
A typical household bill for May was about $9 dollars more compared to May of 2024, according to Hawaiian Electric (HECO). The higher prices are largely due to the higher price of fossil fuels, but more energy consumption during the summer months may also be a factor.
"We've noticed an uptick in business since it's been getting hotter," stated Arjuna Lowther, Igloo AC President. "We've been getting more calls for both installs and repairs, maintenance. Right now we're booked out about two months."
Make sure your ACs are ready to take on the summer heat or you might find yourself in a hot situation. Lowther recommends regular maintenance by hosing down dirt and debris on your outside unit and cleaning out the air filters at least once every month.
Professional cleanings are suggested at least once every year, according to Lowther. With proper upkeep, you'll likely have an AC system lasting 12 to 15 years.
To help keep energy bills low, Lowther said many people are upgrading their units to a ductless split unit – a much more reliable option compared to window AC units, per Lowther.
"Trying to use the fan instead of the air conditioner, keep the windows open, take advantage of those breezes," said Darren Pai, HECO spokesperson. "Please don't stand there with the refrigerator door open and trying to decide what you want, because that's a classic way of wasting energy."