High Energy Bill from HVAC?
If your AC or furnace runs constantly or your energy bills have spiked, here's how to diagnose and fix it.
💡 Quick Stat: A dirty air filter alone can increase energy consumption by 5-15%.
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Since 2008
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Check These First (DIY)
Before calling for service, try these quick troubleshooting steps.
Check and replace air filter
Dirty filter = harder-working system = higher bills. Replace monthly in summer/winter.
Check thermostat settings
Accidentally set too high or low? Fan on ON instead of AUTO wastes energy.
Check for air leaks
Windows, doors, and attic hatch. Conditioned air escaping = system runs longer.
Inspect ductwork (if accessible)
Disconnected or leaky ducts in attic/crawlspace waste conditioned air.
Clean outdoor unit
Dirty condenser coils reduce efficiency. Gently hose off debris.
Tried everything above and still having issues?
Our technicians can diagnose the problem in about 30 minutes.
Schedule Service: (704) 821-3632Common Causes & Repair Costs
What might be wrong and what it typically costs to fix.
| Cause | Likelihood | Cost | DIY? |
|---|---|---|---|
Dirty Air Filter Forces system to work harder. 5-15% efficiency loss. | Very Common | $5-$30 | ✓ Yes |
Thermostat Set Incorrectly Fan set to ON, temperature set too extreme, or schedule wrong. | Very Common | Free | ✓ Yes |
Air Leaks in Home Conditioned air escapes through gaps in windows, doors, attic. | Very Common | $0-$500 | ✓ Yes |
Ductwork Leaks 20-30% of conditioned air can escape through leaky ducts. | Common | $200-$600 | Pro |
Dirty Coils Dirty evaporator or condenser coils reduce heat transfer efficiency. | Common | $150-$400 | Pro |
Low Refrigerant System works harder to achieve same cooling. Also damages compressor. | Moderate | $200-$800 | Pro |
Old/Inefficient System Systems 15+ years old are far less efficient than modern units. | Moderate | $5,800-$10,000 | Pro |
Undersized System System too small for home runs constantly but never reaches temp. | Less Common | Varies | Pro |
Dirty Air Filter
DIYForces system to work harder. 5-15% efficiency loss.
Thermostat Set Incorrectly
DIYFan set to ON, temperature set too extreme, or schedule wrong.
Air Leaks in Home
DIYConditioned air escapes through gaps in windows, doors, attic.
Ductwork Leaks
Pro20-30% of conditioned air can escape through leaky ducts.
Dirty Coils
ProDirty evaporator or condenser coils reduce heat transfer efficiency.
Low Refrigerant
ProSystem works harder to achieve same cooling. Also damages compressor.
Old/Inefficient System
ProSystems 15+ years old are far less efficient than modern units.
Undersized System
ProSystem too small for home runs constantly but never reaches temp.
Diagnose by Symptom
Describe what you're experiencing to narrow down the cause.
"HVAC runs almost constantly"
Likely cause: System undersized, low refrigerant, dirty coils, or extreme weather + poor insulation.
"Energy bill suddenly spiked"
Likely cause: Something changed—dirty filter, refrigerant leak, failing component working harder.
"Some rooms much warmer/cooler than others"
Likely cause: Ductwork issue—leaks, disconnection, or improper balancing.
"System takes forever to reach set temperature"
Likely cause: Low refrigerant, dirty coils, undersized system, or air infiltration.
"Bills high even with mild weather"
Likely cause: System efficiency issue—dirty coils, failing components, or duct leaks.
Our Repair Pricing
Upfront, honest pricing. No surprises.
$89
Diagnostic Fee
Waived with repair
$200-$800
Most Repairs
20-45 minutes
Response Time
30-50%
Less Than Big Co's
* Prices shown are typical ranges. Final price depends on specific diagnosis.
Serving the Charlotte Metro Area
Same-day emergency service available • Response in 20-45 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my energy bill so high when running HVAC?
Start with the basics: dirty air filter (5-15% efficiency loss), thermostat set too extreme, or fan set to ON instead of AUTO. Beyond that, common causes include duct leaks (20-30% loss), dirty coils, low refrigerant, or an aging inefficient system. A tune-up often reveals hidden efficiency losses.
How much can I save by replacing an old HVAC system?
A new high-efficiency system (16+ SEER AC or 95%+ AFUE furnace) can save 20-40% on heating/cooling costs compared to a 15-year-old system. Plus, new systems qualify for utility rebates and tax credits. Break-even is typically 5-7 years, then pure savings.
Does HVAC maintenance really lower energy bills?
Yes—a well-maintained system runs 15-25% more efficiently than a neglected one. Annual tune-ups ($149 each for AC and furnace) clean coils, check refrigerant, and catch problems early. Our Kodiak Care Club ($19.95/month) includes 2 tune-ups per year plus 15% off repairs.
What's making my AC run constantly?
Common causes: undersized system for your home, dirty air filter, low refrigerant, dirty coils, or extreme temperatures combined with poor insulation. Also check that your thermostat isn't set unrealistically low. AC should cycle on/off, not run 24/7.
How do I know if my ducts are leaking?
Signs of duct leaks: some rooms much warmer/cooler than others, visible dust near vents, high energy bills, system runs constantly. Ducts in unconditioned spaces (attic, crawlspace) are most prone to leaks. A duct leakage test can quantify the loss—typically 20-30% in older homes.
Related Troubleshooting Guides
Want to Lower Your Energy Bills?
Schedule a tune-up ($149) or get a free estimate on a new high-efficiency system.
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