High Energy Bill? Common Causes and What to Fix First
Before you blame the utility, check these. Heating and cooling losses through the attic are one of the most common and fixable reasons bills climb.
Common reasons energy bills run high
- Heating and cooling: usually the largest share of home energy use, so anything that makes the HVAC work harder shows up on the bill.
- Air leaks and low insulation: conditioned air escaping and outside heat or cold getting in. The attic is often the biggest opportunity.
- Leaky ducts in attics, crawl spaces or garages.
- Aging or poorly maintained HVAC (dirty filters, low refrigerant, old equipment).
- Water heating and appliances.
- Rate changes from your utility. Compare usage (kWh or therms), not just the dollar amount.
How to find the cause
- Compare this year's usage with the same month last year on your bill.
- Check attic insulation depth. See recommended R-values.
- Feel for drafts around doors, windows, outlets and the attic hatch.
- Ask your utility about a home energy audit. Many offer free or discounted audits, and some rebates require one.
Fixes that usually pay off
Air sealing plus attic insulation is often one of the most cost-effective improvements, and ENERGY STAR recommends it as a starting point. Rebates can lower the cost: see insulation rebates.
Common questions
Why is my energy bill so high all of a sudden?
Check usage, not just cost: a rate increase, extreme weather, a failing HVAC system, or a new appliance can all cause a jump. If usage is up year over year, air leaks and low insulation are common causes.
Does attic insulation lower energy bills?
Insulating and air sealing reduce how hard your heating and cooling has to work. Savings depend on your climate, how much insulation you have now, and your energy prices.
What is a home energy audit?
An assessment, often with a blower-door test, that finds where your home loses energy. Many utilities offer them free or discounted.
General information summarized from the public sources listed below. It isn't professional, medical or legal advice. A licensed professional who inspects your home can tell you what it needs.