Why is my electricity bill so high?

thermostat for adjusting whole home temperaturesIf you’re an Indiana homeowner, you may have had a not-so-nice post-holiday surprise this year in the form of a high electricity bill! We talked to so many people this year who were shocked by the increase in their electricity bill and were at a loss for the cause. While many of us may experience higher electricity bills around the holidays thanks to light displays and more company, there could have been a less obvious culprit for your high electricity bills this year: bitter temperatures. This is especially true if your house has a heat pump.

Heat pumps are most efficient until temperatures fall below 30 degrees outside. Once the temps dip below that, heat pumps can’t run as efficiently to keep up with the cold, and backup electricity often kicks on. (Now, before you say, “Wait! I bought a super-efficient heat pump!” We have to break the news that the efficiency rating is based on the air conditioning efficiency, not the heating efficiency. Whomp whomp!)

How do I know if I have a heat pump?

If you’re not sure whether you have a heat pump or not, no judgment from us! Here are some quick ways to tell if your home has a heat pump:Heat Pump unit

  • If you don’t pay a gas or propone bill, it’s likely you have a heat pump.
  • If your thermostat has an ‘ER’ or ‘EMERGENCY’ button, it’s likely you have a heat pump.
  • If your heat kicks on and your outside unit is operating, it’s likely you have a heat pump.

Can I have a heat pump and a gas furnace?

Yes, you can.

A dual fuel HVAC system, or hybrid split system, allows you to switch between the two heating systems, depending on need or cost.

The heat pump functions as the primary heating unit in this case, but when it fails to maintain the necessary heat level, the gas furnace kicks in and supplements the deficit.

If electricity is cheaper, it makes sense to pause the gas or oil furnace and maximize the heat pump. Likewise, it’s smart to run the gas furnace for longer hours when gas prices drop or when temperatures drop below 30 degrees.

What can I do to keep electricity bills low, even when temperatures fall into the single-digits?

Unfortunately, your only option would be to turn off your backup electricity, but the temperatures will keep dropping in your house and your comfort will drop off with those falling degrees. Yes, the best option is to wait for warmer days to give your system (and bill!) a break.

One thing you can do to decrease the amount of time your system is running is to check your filter! A dirty filter increases the amount of time your system has to run and can increase your utility bills.

Heating in the Indianapolis Area

Fortunately for us, the winter seems to have been fairly mild, all in all. But it’s not over yet. ???? If your system isn’t keeping you comfortable in your home, contact us today. LCS Heating and Cooling can help you determine a solution that will offer you lasting comfort in your home!