Power bill suddenly higher?

What usually causes this

These are the common possibilities, not a diagnosis. A page cannot tell which one it is — that takes a technician testing the system.

Dirty filter or coils

Restricted airflow and dirty coils make the system run longer for the same result.

Low refrigerant charge

A slow leak reduces capacity gradually, so the system runs longer and longer.

Duct leakage

Cooled or heated air leaking into an attic or crawlspace is paid for and lost.

Backup heat in winter

A heat pump relying on electric backup heat can raise winter bills sharply with no change in comfort.

Thermostat settings

A schedule that was changed, a fan left on, or large setbacks with a heat pump.

Aging equipment

Older systems gradually lose efficiency, and efficiency standards have risen considerably over the past 15 years.

What you can safely check yourself

• Compare your bill with the same month last year, and look at whether the weather was hotter or colder.
• Replace the filter and clear around the outdoor unit.
• Check thermostat schedules and set the fan to Auto.
• Notice whether the system seems to run constantly, or whether some rooms are uncomfortable.

What we check when we get there

1. 1A technician checks airflow, coil condition, refrigerant charge and electrical components, and looks for duct leakage and backup-heat problems.
2. 2If the system is near the end of its life, you'll get a straight comparison of repair against replacement, including efficiency.

What it is likely to cost

A tune-up is the least expensive starting point and often finds the cause. Repairs and duct work are priced after the problem is found.

AC tune-up

From $129

Furnace tune-up

From $129

Leak detection

From $249

Prices are starting points for standard work in the Savannah area. Final price depends on the system and site, and is confirmed before work begins. Permits and code-required upgrades may be additional.

Repair or replace?

If the system is over about 12–15 years old and needs a significant repair, compare the repair against a correctly sized, higher-efficiency replacement — utility rebates may apply to some equipment.

Questions people ask about this

How much of my bill is heating and cooling?

It varies by home, but in a hot, humid climate cooling is typically one of the biggest single uses of household electricity.

Will maintenance lower my bill?

It keeps the system from losing efficiency to dirty coils, low airflow and drifting components. It won't turn an old system into a new one.

Where to go next