Chilling Out High Energy Usage

With summer temperatures causing HVAC systems to run long and hard,  electric bills may come with a degree of sticker shock for some United members.

A home energy audit marks the first step toward smarter energy use. This detailed assessment uncovers hidden inefficiencies and highlights practical steps members can take to improve performance and control costs. 

United’s seasoned Energy Advisors conduct comprehensive evaluations—tracking down air leaks, measuring insulation levels, inspecting HVAC systems and ductwork, and performing targeted diagnostic tests to uncover the most effective energy-saving solutions. 

Since 2006, United’s Energy Experts have visited over 10,000 homes and businesses across the service territory, helping members trim energy waste and boost indoor comfort. 

As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, United delivers more than reliable power. It delivers a rare commitment to help members use less of the very product it provides. That mission runs deep, fueled by a belief in long-term energy education and efficiency for the benefit of every member, every home, every day. 

Before setting foot on site, United’s energy solutions specialist reviews the home’s electrical history, analyzing years of kilowatt-hour usage, daily consumption trends, and weather patterns. This investigative approach paints a detailed picture of how the home behaves. Patterns emerge. Spikes reveal themselves. Sometimes, telltale signs point to hidden culprits—like a stuck heating element or a leaking water heater—before the inspection even begins. 

During the in-home visit, the specialist walks through the structure with the member, uncovering habits, systems, and quirks that shape the home’s energy footprint. This boots-on-the-ground evaluation dives deep into the major drivers of electricity consumption and their ripple effects on monthly bills. With insights in hand, the energy solutions specialist crafts personalized strategies designed to reduce waste, improve comfort, and ease financial strain.

United’s Energy Experts often encounter familiar culprits behind high energy bills. One of the most common: stuck heating elements. These components can remain locked in the “on” position, producing heat nonstop regardless of thermostat settings. A faulty relay is often to blame, keeping the system in a constant state of excess. Left unchecked, this issue drives up costs, strains equipment, and disrupts comfort. Fast diagnostics and timely repairs restore balance and efficiency.

Faulty water heaters are also frequent offenders. When a unit runs nonstop or keeps water hotter than needed, it consumes large amounts of electricity. Sediment buildup, worn thermostats, and aging heating elements often combine to reduce efficiency. Without maintenance, these systems rack up costs while delivering subpar performance. Preventative care and timely upgrades can extend their lifespan and reduce energy demand.

Swimming pools, though a source of relaxation, can quietly drain energy through inefficient pumps. Older, single-speed models or poorly configured systems often run longer than necessary. Clogged filters, outdated controls, and overworked motors contribute to excessive energy use. Upgrading to variable-speed pumps, optimizing run times, and performing routine maintenance can significantly reduce power consumption while maintaining performance.

Up above or down below, ductwork plays a crucial role in energy flow. Torn or loose ducts leak conditioned air into unoccupied spaces, forcing HVAC systems to work harder and longer. These silent leaks—caused by time, pests, or poor installation—diminish comfort and inflate energy bills. Sealing and insulating ducts restores proper airflow and boosts system efficiency.

Heat pumps that falter often trigger emergency heat, a costly backup that consumes large amounts of electricity. Designed for extreme conditions, this system can end up doing the heavy lifting when the heat pump fails due to refrigerant leaks, sensor malfunctions, or compressor issues. Similarly, HVAC systems that struggle to heat or cool properly fall into long, inefficient cycles that wear down components and spike utility costs. Regular tune-ups and quick repairs keep systems running efficiently and minimize waste.

Water well systems can also upset energy efficiency when leaks or mechanical problems go unnoticed. Pumps that run continuously or cycle rapidly may be responding to underground leaks, failing pressure tanks, or worn-out components. As the system struggles, energy use climbs. Inspections, pressure checks, and timely fixes help ensure reliable water access without the energy drain.

Not every home hides a major energy hog—but every home holds opportunities for improvement. United’s energy audits offer more than a checklist—they provide a clear path to long-term savings and improved efficiency. Each visit helps uncover hidden problems, reveal usage habits, and offer actionable solutions tailored to each home. From leaky ducts to outdated appliances, small fixes can lead to meaningful change. With United’s dedication to service, education, and smart energy use, members gain the tools and knowledge to take control of their consumption and costs.

Members can schedule a free home energy audit by calling any United office or submitting a request on our website.