Tomball TX ac use is on the rise. The latest edition of Future Trends of Extreme Weather in Texas reveals a concerning acceleration in extreme weather conditions across the state . . . This updated study details significant increases in 100-degree days, intensifying droughts and heightened urban flooding events.
Why are air conditioning and electricity usage rising in Tomball and Northwest Harris County? There are a number of reasons.
Insulation – There’s a common misconception that insulation is only for keeping homes warm in winter weather. Good insulation keeps the interior air comfortable in all weather conditions. Most Texas homes are under-insulated, which means you could be using 2-4 times more electricity to keep your home cool.
Population – Texas’ population has grown over 45% since 2000. Recent roadway construction has offered greater accessibility to our area, and with our growing economic development, Tomball population is anticipated to increase from about 14,823 (2024) to 20,000+ by 2030. The Tomball-area population will be over 100,000 within 5 years.
Tomball, Global Heat Extremes Means More AC Use
It’s getting hotter. In August 2024, Tomball saw nine days of 100° weather. Texas has always had warmer weather, but with rising temperatures, there’s now an increased need for cool-air comfort. Air conditioning accounts for about 18% of your electric bill.
The hottest days in Texas so far were August 12, 1936 (120° in Seymour, TX) and June 28, 1994 (120° in Monahans, TX). Weather that happens in Houston doesn’t stay in Houston, and its metro-area cities include Tomball. Based on historic Houston-area data, the highest Tomball temperatures were 108° in August 1909, 109° in September 2000, and 109° in August 2011. One month – August 2023 – had the all-time hottest days on record.
In 2023, more than 47,000 people in Europe had heat-related deaths. The number of deaths due to extreme heat has been steadily increasing in the U.S. Every year the numbers get higher: Approximately 2,325 people died from heat-related causes in 2023; the highest number since 1978.
Tomball is getting hotter in other ways.
Following World War II, the push to relocate from big cities to rural areas made Tomball, TX an ideal countryside community for new families. However, economic development has led to an ever-increasing population and Tomball is no longer a sleepy, rustic settlement northwest of Houston. Urban cities are hotter than rural towns.
Ways to Combat Rising Heat & Higher Electric & AC Bills
Water needs to become a family-favorite drink. Staying hydrated, avoiding caffeine and alcohol are natural ways to keep cool. In the home, using energy-efficient appliances, ensuring your insulation is adequate, and unplugging not-in-use appliances and devices can reduce electric bills. Compare energy providers, upgrade from a traditional to an IoT smart thermostat, and complete the changeover to LED lighting throughout your house.
Extreme temperatures can shorten your HVAC’s lifespan. How often you use your AC can also affect its longevity, and Texans use AC heavily throughout the year. Well-maintained air conditioners can last as long as 15-20 years, but without professional maintenance, some have been known to fail within 5 years.
During annual maintenance, your Country Air heating and cooling technician will inspect the entire cooling system:
Check electrical components
Check refrigerant
Check the thermostat
Check/clean outdoor unit
Clean drains
Clean evaporator coils
Clean/replace filters
Inspect/clean condenser coils
Measure airflow
Visually inspect ductwork for leaks/damage
…and more
Filter-changing may be needed more than usual if you have smokers or multiple furry, 4-legged family members. Otherwise, follow the manufacturer’s directions. Keeping the areas around your indoor and yard cooling units clean and checking the drip pan for normal accumulation are equally important. It’s a fact: Professional spring AC maintenance is key to lowering energy consumption.
Here’s another fact: Country Air is the most trusted heating and cooling company in Tomball. We use industry-best practices and deliver 5-star workmanship. We’re invested in superior customer care because we care about you as well as our reputation. For more information, call 281-356-8564 or contact Country Air. We welcome your questions.
FYI
Two of the frequently asked questions we receive about AC and power usage in Northwest Harris County are:
A Texas-average electric bill is $172/month. Houston electric bills are between $216-$255/month. The average Tomball residential electric bill is $184/month. The variables include locale, service providers, and energy efficiency practices by residents.
Maintenance is a big factor in AC efficiency and lower electric bills, but other important factors are:
Climate – Hot-weather temperature increases will lead to higher electric bills.
SEER – A higher energy-efficiency rating saves money and increases your property value.
Size – Less is more (energy efficient). Bigger AC units use more electricity, so don’t buy a larger system than you need.
Thermostat – Smart thermostats give you greater control and reduce energy consumption, but raising the thermostat just 2 degrees can save money.
