As we continue in the cooling season, from midsummer to early fall, we must take into account how our cooling systems operate during the warmer months.

In winter, we talked about heating degree days, which measures how long temperatures stay below a comfort threshold. Now, we're dealing with cooling degree days, which track how long temperatures are above the comfort threshold of 72°F.  In the coming billing cycles, I expect we'll see higher energy usage compared to the same period during 2023.

Last year, from May to June, we had 7 cooling degree days. This year, we've had 49 days in the same period, a significant increase of over 700%.

In the areas Haywood EMC serves around Highlands, temperatures are relatively cooler due to the area's elevation of more than 4,000 feet. Using data from North Carolina State University's (NCSU) weather station in Highlands, between May and June of 2023, there were 82 hours above 80°F. This year, we've already had 195 hours above 80°F in the same period.

Additionally, warmer air holds more moisture than cooler air and will cause your home's HVAC system to work harder to remove the extra humidity from your home. In May and June of 2023, NCSU's Highlands weather station recorded 197 hours where the humidity was above 98%. During the same time period this year, the station has recorded 284 hours with humidity above 98%.

Remember, HVAC systems work to transfer heat. With this summer's substantial increase in cooling degree days and humidity, air conditioners will run longer and use more energy compared to last year. This will result in higher energy consumption on your utility bills.

For tips on how to most efficiently operate your HVAC unit, despite these conditions, visit https://www.energystar.gov/products/ask-the-experts/how-keep-your-hvac-…;

- Robby Moore PEM, BA-P