High Energy Bills
Unusually high electric or gas bills compared to previous months or years, excessive HVAC energy usage.
Quick Overview
DIY improvements: ongoing | Professional audit: 2-3 hours | Major upgrades: 1-5 days
All Year
Common Symptoms
You might be experiencing this problem if you notice any of these signs:
- Bill significantly higher than last year
- Costs increased without usage change
- System runs constantly
- Bill double or triple normal
- Gradual increase over months
- Higher than neighbors' bills
- Spike after HVAC work
- Costs high despite new efficient system
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Follow these steps to identify the exact cause of your problem:
- Compare bills to same month last year
- Check for rate increases from utility
- Review thermostat settings and schedule
- Note if system runs constantly
- Check for air leaks around windows and doors
- Inspect attic insulation depth
- Verify air filter cleanliness
- Look for duct leaks in attic
- Check age and efficiency of HVAC equipment
- Note if problem started after specific event
- Review usage patterns (working from home more)
- Compare actual thermostat temps to bills
Most Common Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
Poor home insulation
HIGH LIKELIHOODAir leaks around home
HIGH LIKELIHOODDirty air filter restricting airflow
HIGH LIKELIHOODThermostat set too high or low
HIGH LIKELIHOODLeaking ductwork (15-30% loss typical)
MEDIUM LIKELIHOODOld inefficient HVAC system
MEDIUM LIKELIHOODLow refrigerant causing system to run longer
MEDIUM LIKELIHOODDirty coils reducing efficiency
MEDIUM LIKELIHOODImproperly sized equipment
LOW LIKELIHOODDIY Solutions
What You'll Need:
- Caulk and gun
- Weatherstripping
- Insulation
- Duct mastic or metal tape
- Garden hose
- Screwdriver
Time Required: Varies by project: 30 minutes to several weekends
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Replace air filter monthly
- Seal air leaks with caulk and weatherstripping
- Add insulation to attic (aim for R-38 to R-60)
- Install programmable thermostat
- Raise cooling temp to 78°F, lower heat to 68°F
- Close blinds during hottest/coldest times
- Seal duct leaks with mastic or metal tape
- Clean outdoor condenser coils
- Use ceiling fans (counterclockwise in summer)
- Install door sweeps on exterior doors
- Insulate hot water pipes
- Schedule professional HVAC tune-up
- Install smart power strips
- Use LED bulbs to reduce heat generation
- Plant shade trees on south and west sides
⚠️ Safety Warnings
- Wear protective gear when handling insulation
- Don't block combustion air for gas appliances
- Maintain proper attic ventilation when adding insulation
When to Call a Professional
Don't attempt DIY repairs if you experience any of these situations:
- Home energy audit to identify biggest issues
- HVAC system more than 12-15 years old
- Significant duct leaks found
- Refrigerant leak suspected
- System efficiency testing needed
- Major insulation upgrade
- Attic air sealing
- Equipment replacement or upgrade
Prevention Tips
Stop this problem before it starts with these preventive measures:
- Schedule annual HVAC maintenance
- Replace filters every 30 days during peak seasons
- Use programmable thermostat schedules
- Add insulation to attic and walls
- Seal all air leaks around home
- Upgrade to ENERGY STAR equipment when replacing
- Install whole-home dehumidifier in humid climates
- Get professional energy audit every 3-5 years
- Monitor utility bills monthly for spikes
- Keep outdoor unit clear and clean
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my electric bill so high with new AC?
New AC causing high bills usually indicates: improper sizing (too large causes short cycling), installation issues (duct leaks, low refrigerant), thermostat problems, or home has poor insulation that new efficient AC revealed. Also verify you're comparing similar weather periods - extreme temperatures drive higher usage.
How much should I expect to pay for heating and cooling?
Average HVAC costs are $100-300/month depending on climate, home size, and efficiency. Expect 40-60% of total utility bill. Bills spike in extreme summer/winter months. Compare to similar homes in your area, not different climates.
What home improvement saves the most on HVAC costs?
Attic insulation and air sealing provide the best ROI, reducing bills 15-30%. Next is duct sealing (10-20% savings), then new efficient HVAC equipment (10-30% savings). Start with cheapest fixes: filter replacement, air sealing, programmable thermostat.
Related Problems
AC Short Cycling
AC turns on and off repeatedly in short bursts instead of running proper cooling cycles.
Furnace Short Cycling
Furnace starts and stops in short bursts instead of running full heating cycles.
Poor Airflow
Weak air coming from vents, some rooms get little or no airflow, or reduced air pressure throughout home.