If your electric bills are unseemly high, there could be various reasons – from the cost of power to neglected HVAC maintenance to seasonal changes and high energy usage.
There’s nothing quite like the shock and frustration that comes with opening a higher-than-expected electric bill. Whether you’re trying to balance your budget or simply looking to cut back on expenses, the sting of a skyrocketing energy bill can be frustrating. But don’t despair too much! Your faithful MK Electric electricians are here to help you understand and hopefully pinpoint the issue to help you conquer your escalating energy bill.
So, why are your electric bills so high suddenly? Let’s explore a few reasons as to why your electric bills may be going up.
1. Effects of Global Events on Power Costs
If you’ve noticed a hike in your electric bill recently, it’s possible that world events are the culprit. Global occurrences like pandemics, natural disasters, and changing policies on fuel extraction can all significantly impact the availability and cost of power. It may be helpful to explore how electricity pricing operates on the global stage to further understand these fluctuations in your bill.
Furthermore, with gas, oil, and coal still being major sources of power generation, any increase in fuel prices can directly impact your electric bill. Higher demands during extremely cold or hot weather means higher fuel prices – and as a result – higher electricity costs.
2. Neglected HVAC Maintenance
Sometimes, the answer to your high electricity bill lies closer to home – in your electrical system, to be more specific. Regular maintenance can reduce your energy costs significantly. At MK Electric, we offer a variety of electrical services in Columbus and the surrounding areas to help you manage your home’s energy usage. So, if you suspect that your home is in need of some current electrical updates or perhaps you are long overdue for an inspection, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.
3. Poor Insulation and Air Leaks
Poor insulation and air leaks can also lead to higher energy consumption. Consider conducting an energy audit to unearth potential leaks and areas of energy waste. Not only will this help you understand why your electricity bill is high, but it could also save you a significant amount over time.
4. High Energy Usage During Peak Times
Demand for electricity isn’t constant; it fluctuates throughout the day. Unfortunately, using power during peak times can contribute to high electric bills. Consider scheduling your high-energy activities and appliances during off-peak times to save on costs.
5. Seasonal Changes
If you are asking yourself, “why is my electric bill so high all of a sudden?”. It could be down to changes in the weather. For example, your HVAC system works overtime during extreme weather conditions, resulting in higher electric bills. We are currently in the middle of Ohio’s hottest months of the year. So, your air conditioner is working harder than ever to combat the peak outdoor temps so that your home remains comfortable around the clock. We recommend comparing your bills during the same periods year on year. You might find that your high electric bill isn’t that out of the ordinary but more so related to seasonal trends couple with current inflation costs.
6. Wasted Energy
Leaving lights, fans, and appliances on when not in use can add up to a significant amount of wasted energy. Switching to energy-efficient LED lighting, turning off appliances, upgrading to a smart thermostat, and using fans strategically can reduce your energy usage.
7. Working From Home
With more people working from home than ever before, residential power usage has increased. If this applies to you, consider implementing energy-saving measures, like using energy-efficient devices, unplugging idle devices, using smart plugs to manage energy consumption, and utilizing a smart thermostat to preprogram temperatures according to your weekly schedule.
Next Steps
Now, you might be wondering, “How can I reduce my electric bill?” Here are a few practical tips and suggestions:
- Switch from variable to fixed supply energy rates
- Shop around for different energy suppliers
- Install a smart thermostat
- Upgrade home insulation and seal drafts
- Adjust your habits at home (I.e., utilize your ceiling fans to save energy)
Remember, with MK Electric, you’re never alone in your fight against high electricity bills. If you live in an energy choice state like Ohio, we can help you explore options that give you greater control over your power costs. Let us partner with you to tackle high electric bills together!
You can call MK Electric for all your electrical needs and concerns at (740) 652-9775 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
