What Causes Your High Electric Bill?

High electric bills can be frustrating and leave you wondering what’s causing the sudden spike in your energy usage. In this post, renowned local general contractor Handyman Connection of Mason shares the common reasons behind those unexpectedly high bills and some tips to take control of your energy consumption.

Common Causes of High Electric Bills

Several factors can contribute to a higher-than-normal electric bill. 

• Inefficient appliances: Older appliances tend to use more energy, and even newer ones may not be the most efficient if they are not ENERGY STAR®-certified. 

• Vampire power: These devices, such as chargers, computers and televisions, consume power even when turned off.

• HVAC systems: Inefficient HVAC systems, poor insulation and leaky air ducts can all lead to increased energy usage.

• Lighting: the type of lighting you use, and how often you use it can also impact your bill. Incandescent bulbs and excessive use of lights can contribute to higher energy consumption.

Tips for Reducing Your Electric Bill

Now that you know some of the main reasons behind a high electric bill, let’s look at ways to reduce it. Consider replacing your old appliances with energy-efficient models. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified products, which have been proven to consume less energy, saving you money in the long run.

To prevent vampire power from leeching more than they need, unplug devices when not in use or use power strips with switches to easily cut off power to multiple devices at once. Make sure to maintain and upgrade your heating and cooling systems by scheduling regular maintenance and considering a more efficient system if your current one is outdated.

Improving your home’s insulation can also do wonders in reducing your electric bill. Start by sealing air leaks and adding insulation to your walls and attic. This will help keep your home at a comfortable temperature with less energy usage.

Finally, switch to energy-efficient lighting. Replace incandescent bulbs with LED or CFL bulbs and use natural light whenever possible to reduce your reliance on artificial lighting.

Is Your Electric Bill Getting Out of Hand? Call a Professional!

While taking the steps outlined above can help lower your electric bill, sometimes it’s necessary to call a professional for assistance. A professional can help identify problem areas, provide expert solutions and make necessary repairs and upgrades. If you’re experiencing persistently high electric bills despite your efforts to reduce usage, notice drafts or temperature fluctuations in your home or cannot pinpoint the cause of your high bills, it’s time to call in the experts.

If you’re struggling with high electric bills and need professional assistance, call Handyman Connection of Mason at (513) 733-3777 or fill out this contact form to request a free estimate.