8 Common Mistakes That Spike Your Utility Bills

Living life without electricity seems almost unimaginable these days. From lighting our homes to keeping them cool, we need a lot of power for everything we do daily. However, when electricity is misused, utility bills spike, sometimes higher than expected.

Here are ten common mistakes you can avoid keeping your utility bills in check year-round.

#1. Not Changing Air Filters

An inefficient HVAC system can inflate your energy bills when the weather gets hot, especially in the summer here in Tampa Bay. Often, this inefficiency is due to dirty air filters.

Over time, HVAC air filters capture dust, lint, pollen, and other pollutants, making the HVAC system work harder than it needs to.

We recommend changing your air filter every 30-60 days to ensure that your system is running efficiently.

#2. Air Leaks

Don’t underestimate how much energy your home could be losing as a result of leaks and drafts.

Consider:

• Checking all the doors, windows, and exterior walls for drafts
• Sealing and caulking any areas where air could leak out
• Paying special attention if you have an attic space

Also, check for ductwork leaks, as these can cause the AC or heater to run more than normal, further increasing electrical costs.

#3. Poor Insulation

In our climate here in Tampa, it is important to ensure that your house is well insulated to keep the cool air within the house.

We recommend insulating the roof or attic with spray foam to prevent leakage during the year, whether you are heating or cooling your space.

#4. Phantom Power

All the appliances in your home can still draw power, even after they are turned off. This phantom power can add up over time and will show up on your utility bill.

We recommend either unplugging appliances like coffee makers, chargers, TVs, and other items when not in use, or using a power bar that allows you to turn electronics fully when you aren’t using them.

#5. Improper Thermostat Usage

Cranking down the thermostat won’t cool your home any faster, so don’t do it! It does not affect how fast your home will cool down. Your HVAC will just end up running longer, translating to a spike in your energy costs.

#6. Cooling an Empty House

If you’re out of the house at work most of the day, or if you are away on vacation, don’t use your AC as you would if you were lounging on the couch at home.

Consider installing a programmable thermostat, which will help you save money on your energy bills. Program it to turn up the temperature while you are away and cool it down right before you return home.

#7. Closing Vents in Unused Rooms

You may think that it makes sense to close the vents in unoccupied rooms to save money, but this just isn’t true. The ductwork for your HVAC is sized to supply even heating and cooling throughout the house, and it will not work efficiently if you disrupt the balance by closing the vents.

#8. Neglecting Maintenance

This is a big one. If you run your HVAC system constantly without changing the air filter or having seasonal maintenance done, it will not heat or cool your home efficiently, causing a spike in your energy bills.

We recommend having seasonal maintenance done at least twice a year, once in the spring, and again in the fall, to ensure that your system runs optimally throughout the year.

Tampa Bay HVAC Maintenance

Say goodbye to spiking electricity bills and call our team at Super Heat & Air. We are ready to perform seasonal maintenance or install a programmable thermostat in your home to help keep electricity bills as low as possible.