Why Is My Energy Bill So High? Top Reasons Explained

When you’re trying to maintain a budget, nothing hurts worse than escalating energy bills. But if you’re feeling sticker shock every month, it may be time to do an energy audit at home.

Why is my energy bill so high? Read on to find out!

Old Appliances

The appliances you rely on each day can be the culprits when you notice increasing utility bills. You may experience high energy consumption if your appliances are:

Over a decade old
Not Energy Star certified
On standby mode

Old AC compressors can consume a lot of energy. And older appliances, like refrigerators, will increase energy bills, as well.

Upgrading to appliances with energy efficiency improvements can be a game changer. If you’re doing a kitchen remodel, don’t forget to spring for better appliances!

Peak Demand

Your high energy bills may stem from strong demand. If you’re running your AC during the prime afternoon hours in the middle of a Tennessee summer, for instance, you’ll have lots of company. As a result, you may face higher rates from local utility companies during those times.

You can shave money off your bill by setting your HVAC equipment to a higher temperature at peak afternoon times. Stay away from operating your dishwasher or washing machine, as well.

Additionally, don’t forget to unplug appliances and devices when they’re not in use. Even though you might think you’re saving electricity by not using them, they use standby power when still plugged in. Check printers and gaming consoles, for instance, since these devices might be used less often.

Poor Insulation

Does it feel too stuffy in your home during the summer months? Improving your insulation situation can lead to lower utility bills. Plan on checking for:

Drafty windows
Doors without weatherstripping
Poor indoor insulation

When your home lacks proper insulation, your AC goes into overdrive to compensate. During the winter months in Tennessee, warm air inside your house can leak outside.

You can reduce energy costs by caulking gaps in windows and adding weatherstripping. Pumping insulation into walls can help, as well.

Careless Usage

Ultimately, some of the best energy-saving tips prioritize mindfulness. In other words, you may need to be more careful about how often you use certain appliances.

For example, running a partially full dishwasher daily can contribute to energy bill spikes. Aim to fill the entire dishwasher and try to stretch the time between cycles.

Similarly, overusing the dryer or keeping an extra refrigerator will lead to higher costs. Do your budget a favor and unplug spare fridges that aren’t even that full.

And don’t forget about maintenance. Regularly servicing appliances and HVAC equipment can ensure that they perform better – and use less electricity.