Why Is My Electric Bill So High? Common Causes & How to Lower It

For many New Jersey and Pennsylvania homeowners, a sudden spike in electric bills can be alarming. You might be wondering, "Why is my electric bill so high?" The answer to this question often lies in outdated systems, inefficient usage, and regional factors. Our licensed electricians at Thomas Electric want you to know what can cause electric bill spikes and how you can bring down your costs. We can help you make smart changes that reduce energy waste and lower your monthly expenses.

Outdated Appliances Are Energy Hogs

Although old appliances may still function, they often lack modern energy-saving technology. Refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers older than 10 to 15 years consume far more energy than new models. These older appliances can cause energy spikes, even during normal usage.

Upgrading to new ENERGY STAR-certified appliances can significantly affect your energy usage. New installations can reduce energy waste and lower your costs substantially over time.

HVAC Inefficiencies Cause Skyrocketing Bills

Heating and cooling systems are the biggest contributors to rising electricity costs. In New Jersey and Pennsylvania, summers are hot and humid, while winters bring bitter cold. These extreme temperature swings force your HVAC system to work overtime to meet demand.

The costs will rise even further if your heating and cooling system is outdated or poorly maintained. An underperforming AC, a struggling furnace, clogged filters, and leaky ductwork can all contribute to rising costs.

Are There Phantoms in Your Home?

No, we aren't talking about ghosts! You likely have many devices that continue to draw small amounts of power even when not in use. This is known as phantom energy or standby power. Phone chargers, televisions, gaming consoles, coffee makers, and desktop computers are common examples.

Although they do not draw a lot of power individually, phantom energy can add up over time. It helps to use smart power strips or unplug electronics and small appliances when not in use.

Poor Insulation and Air Leaks Might Be to Blame

Homes with inadequate insulation, drafty windows, and other air leaks force HVAC systems to work harder than necessary. In the winter, heat escapes through windows, attics, and walls. In the summer, cool air leaks out, and heat enters. The constant battle to keep temperatures comfortable leads to energy spikes.

Solutions include:

• Adding attic insulation
• Sealing gaps around doors and windows
• Installing weather stripping
• Using thermal curtains
• Caulking around electrical outlets and switch plates

The Power of a Home Energy Audit

If your electric bill continues to rise despite your best efforts to curb wasted energy, you may need to schedule a home energy audit. These detailed inspections involve checking for appliance performance, air leaks, and system inefficiencies. An energy audit provides a complete picture of your home's energy consumption and areas for improvement.

Following a home energy audit, a professional can recommend cost-effective solutions. Whether you need minor fixes or major system and appliance overhauls, the goal is increased electrical efficiency.

Electrical Inspections Can Pinpoint Problems

Sometimes, high electric bills are due to the wiring within your home. Issues like faulty or outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, and damaged electrical panels can all cause high electric bills.

Electrical problems that waste energy:

• Loose electrical connections create resistance that wastes electricity as heat
• Outdated wiring may not support modern energy-efficient appliances
• Incorrect circuit breaker sizing can cause inefficient appliance operation
• Poor grounding reduces efficiency of sensitive electronics
• Old electrical panels that cycle on and off unnecessarily

Our residential electricians work with homeowners throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Thomas Electric specializes in comprehensive electrical inspections that help you save electricity. Whether you're dealing with a rewiring problem or an outdated electrical panel, we'll provide the solutions to help your home run efficiently.

Seasonal Factors in NJ and PA

New Jersey and Pennsylvania experience some of the highest electricity rates in the nation. Seasonal factors play a significant role in your monthly costs:

Summer Challenges

• Air conditioning runs constantly during humid NJ summers
• Pool pumps and filters increase electrical usage
• Dehumidifiers run around the clock
• Extended daylight means more electronics in use

Winter Challenges

• Electric heating systems work overtime during cold snaps
• Holiday lighting and decorations add to the load
• Shorter days mean more indoor lighting needed
• Space heaters supplement central heating

Take Charge of Your Electric Bill

High electric bills are frustrating, but there are ways to reduce your costs. Understanding the common causes and taking action can reduce your energy bill and result in savings all year round.

Quick wins to start with:

• Switch all bulbs to LED (saves 75% on lighting costs)
• Install a programmable thermostat
• Use smart power strips for entertainment centers and home offices
• Set water heater to 120°F instead of the default 140°F
• Run dishwasher and laundry during off-peak hours

If you live in New Jersey or Pennsylvania, Thomas Electric is your partner for improving electrical efficiency. We can help you stop the guesswork and implement lasting solutions that save you money!

Call our experts at Thomas Electric if you need electrical services in Central New Jersey or any of the surrounding areas. Let us help you find the reasons for high electric bills!