Faulty wiring can be dangerous, but in most cases, faulty wiring will just run up your electricity bill. If you’re taking steps to reduce your energy consumption, yet your bills are still high, do a little detective work before you start re-wiring your home. Here are common reasons for higher electric bills. If none of these things can explain the size of your electric bill, it’s time to call an electrician to troubleshoot your home wiring.
Increase in Your Electric Bill
It’s not just faulty wiring that can create expensive electric bills. There are other areas of the home that can cause your energy bills to rise. Before you call an electrician, here are a few areas you can check first.
Cost of Electricity
The first place to look is your electric bill. Compare your bills with previous months and look at your current and past usage. One explanation may be that there has been a rise in the cost of electricity. So, your first clue to a higher bill is to compare your utility bills with past bills.
New or Additional Appliances
The most apparent reason for an increase in your energy bills is that you have gotten new appliances that are adding to your energy costs. Of course, if you’ve just replaced your appliances with new energy efficient appliances, then a higher electric bill is unusual.
HVAC
Every season brings new temperatures. In the winter, we may be running the heaters more, increasing energy bills. Similarly, in the summer, we may run the AC more. Before you blame the wiring, make sure you’re not just using more electricity to keep your home comfortable.
Leaks
Your home should be a tight envelope that keeps the indoor air from escaping, as well as prevents outdoor air from entering. If your home envelope is weak, your HVAC units are going to work overtime to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. Leaks and broken seals around your windows and doorways are big energy wasters and will show on your energy bills.
Faulty Wiring
Call an electrician to troubleshoot your home wiring and check for electrical leakages. An electrician will check all the wiring and lighting fixtures throughout the home. Weak, frayed, or damaged wiring can force your appliances and lighting to use extra electricity.
Fire Hazards
Old and damaged wiring may cause an increase in energy consumption, but it can also leave your home vulnerable to electrical fires. That’s why it’s best to have a licensed professional inspect your wiring.
Call Trailhead Electric today at 720-308-5995 to discuss the residential electrical service you need in Boulder, Louisville, Lafayette, or Broomfield.
