Why is my Electric Bill so high?
Understanding High Electric Bills
Overview:
A high electric bill can be frustrating, but several common factors may be causing increased energy use.
Here are a few things to check:
Billing Days
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Some billing cycles are longer than others, which can increase your total usage and bill.
Seasonal Weather Changes
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Hot summers and cold winters make your HVAC system work harder, increasing electricity use.
Poor Insulation or Air Leaks
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Drafty windows, doors, or weak insulation can make it harder to keep your home comfortable, causing your HVAC system to run longer.
HVAC Maintenance
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Dirty filters or worn-out HVAC parts reduce efficiency and increase energy consumption.
Older Appliances
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Older appliances often use more electricity than newer, energy-efficient models.
Changes at Home
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Extra guests, new appliances, working from home, hobbies, or family changes can all increase energy use.
Increased Device Usage
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Computers, printers, lighting, and electronics used throughout the day can raise your bill.
Smart Thermostats
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Smart thermostats help reduce energy use by adjusting temperatures automatically based on your schedule.
Adjusting HVAC Settings While Away
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If you're gone for several hours or on vacation, adjusting the thermostat a few degrees can help lower energy costs while maintaining comfort.
Experimenting with small changes can help you find the best balance between comfort and energy savings.
Donut chart showing household energy use by category. The largest portions are air conditioning (17%), space heating (15%), and water heating (14%). Other categories include lighting (10%), refrigerators (7%), TVs and related equipment (7%), clothes dryers (5%), and a combined “not elsewhere classified” category (13%). A smaller grouped segment lists additional uses such as ceiling fans, cooking, microwaves, dishwashers, clothes washers, pool pumps, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, air handlers, and hot tub equipment. The chart is labeled with percentages for each category.
Contact the Utility Call Center
- If you're still uncertain about the cause of your high electric bill, don't hesitate to contact your utility company for assistance. They can help you better understand your energy usage and possibly offer solutions.
Email: customercare@georgetowntexas.gov
Phone: 512-930-3640