What Causes High Energy Bills?

By: Eric Garcia on November 20th, 2023

Are you grappling with unusually high energy bills and wondering what could be causing this spike?

Often, the culprit is your home's heating and cooling system. But there's more to it, so don’t drop a ton of cash on a new HVAC system just yet.

In this article, we'll delve into the primary reasons behind high energy bills and how addressing these can lead to more efficient energy usage and cost savings.

High Energy Bill Causes

There are several things in your home that could be contributing to those high energy bills.

From your appliances to your existing insulation, let’s dive into what causes energy bills to be high.

Cause Number 1: Appliances

When we think of appliances contributing to high energy costs, it's common to consider washers, dryers, or refrigerators.

However, the significant players are often your furnace and air conditioning unit. If not running efficiently, these systems can significantly increase your energy bills.

The Role of Regular Maintenance

Regular inspections and tune-ups by HVAC professionals are crucial.

These not only ensure that your systems are functioning optimally but also help in extending their lifespan. Remember, something as simple as replacing the air filter in your furnace can make a notable difference in its efficiency.

Cause Number 2: Building Envelope

The concept of a building envelope involves creating a barrier that defines the air-sealed area of your house with insulation.

Imagine drawing a border around your house without lifting your pencil off the paper – this is your building envelope.

Air sealing the building envelope of your home can be done with foam insulation from the top to the bottom.

Windows and Doors: Gateways to Air Leaks

Drafty windows and doors are clear indicators that your building envelope is compromised.

These leaks mean that the conditioned air, either heated or cooled, escapes easily, forcing your systems to work harder and longer, thus increasing your bills.

Cause Number 3: Insulation

Insulation plays a pivotal role in maintaining the desired temperature inside your home.

Poor insulation is akin to having a non-insulated cooler; your home loses its ability to keep the air, whether hot or cold, contained.

Comparing Your Home to Insulated Cups

Think of your home as an insulated cup.

Just like how a well-insulated foam cup keeps a beverage at its desired temperature for longer, a well-insulated house retains its conditioned air, ensuring energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Conquering High Energy Bills

Tackling high energy bills involves a holistic approach, starting with ensuring your appliances are efficient, your home is properly air-sealed, and adequately insulated.

At RetroFoam, we specialize in injection foam insulation that can significantly enhance your home’s insulation, leaving it comfortable and more energy-efficient.

If you've gone through these steps and determined that your house needs insulation, visit our Find a Dealer page. Get in touch with a dealer near you for a free estimate and to learn more about how RetroFoam insulation can make your home more comfortable and energy efficient.

Time for a New HVAC System? Optimize HVAC Performance with This Home Insulation Upgrade

Harnessing the Sun and Sealing the Home: The Dynamic Duo of Solar Power and Foam Insulation

What Causes an Uncomfortable Home?

About Eric Garcia

Eric brings his knowledge and training in building science, training in spray and injection foams from the manufacturers, more than eight years installing foam insulation, as well as selling and managing in the foam insulation industry. He is also BPI and Dale Carnegie certified and has taken several building science courses, including air sealing and building envelope. Eric is the Professor of Foam on our educational YouTube series Foam University. Even when Eric is off he is usually still “working” or thinking about work, but when he can get away he enjoys camping, hiking, hunting, and woodworking.