Why Your Summer Energy Bill Is So High and What You Can Do About It
If your power and electricity bill makes you break a sweat before you even step outside, you’re not alone. A lot of Tallahassee homeowners are shocked when their summer energy bill arrives because your air conditioner is usually the biggest reason why.
But that doesn’t mean you have to live in the dark with your thermostat set at 78° all day. Benson’s Heating and Air Conditioning will break down the top five reasons your energy bill climbs during Florida’s hottest months and what you can actually do to bring it back down.
1. Your AC Is Running Nonstop (And Still Not Keeping Up)
“Why is my AC running all the time but my house still feels warm?”
Tallahassee summers are brutal. Temperaturss in the 90s, humidity over 80%. That makes your air conditioner work extra hard. But if it runs all day without making your home comfortable, something’s off.
Common culprits:
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Dirty air filters
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Low refrigerant
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Clogged coils
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Old or undersized units
These issues force your system to work harder and longer, using more electricity for less cooling. That means higher bills and more wear and tear on your equipment.
Here is the Solution: Get a seasonal AC tune-up and ask about your system’s efficiency. Sometimes a simple fix (like replacing filters or cleaning the coils) can cut your energy use dramatically.
2. Poor Insulation Lets Heat Creep In
“Should I add insulation in Florida?”
Absolutely. While insulation might seem like a cold-climate thing, it’s just as important in hot, humid places like Tallahassee. Without good attic insulation, the sun bakes your roof and that heat radiates straight into your living space.
Signs your insulation isn’t cutting it:
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Your upstairs is always hotter than downstairs.
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Your AC seems to cycle on constantly.
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You feel warm air around windows or light fixtures.
Here is the Solution: Consider adding blown-in insulation to your attic. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to lower your summer cooling bill and make your home more comfortable.
3. Your Ductwork Is Leaking Cold Air
“Can bad ductwork raise my power bill?”
Yes, and by a lot. In many Florida homes, ductwork runs through unconditioned attic spaces where leaks, poor connections, or insulation gaps can waste 20%–30% of your cooled air. That’s money literally disappearing into your attic.
The Fix: Have your ducts professionally inspected and sealed. A small investment here can lead to major savings and better airflow throughout your home.
4. You’re Using a Basic Thermostat (Or Set It and Forget It)
“Do smart thermostats really save money?”
Yes, if you use them right. A programmable or smart thermostat helps you adjust temps based on your schedule. If you’re cooling the house all day while no one’s home, you’re wasting money.
Fix: Upgrade to a smart thermostat. Set it to:
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Raise the temp while you’re at work or asleep.
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Cool the house just before you get home.
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Adjust based on humidity (some models do this automatically).
It doesn’t have to be extreme—even a 3° difference can save you 10% or more.
5. Your System’s Just…Old
“Is it worth replacing my AC if it still works?”
It depends. Older AC units (10+ years) are often less efficient, especially in Florida’s tough climate. Even if it still runs, it may be costing you way more than a newer unit would.
Signs it might be time to upgrade:
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Frequent repairs
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Rising bills each summer
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Your unit uses R-22 refrigerant (which is outdated and expensive)
The Solution: Ask your HVAC technician for an efficiency comparison. A modern high-SEER unit could cut your cooling costs by up to 40%. You may also qualify for rebates or tax incentives in Florida.
You Don’t Have to Sweat the Bills
If you’re dealing with crazy energy costs during Tallahassee’s long summers, you’re not alone and it doesn’t always mean you need a brand-new system. Sometimes the fix is as simple as better insulation, sealing a leaky duct, or replacing a clogged filter.
Want a local pro to take a look and help you lower those bills? Schedule a home energy check-up with Benson’s Heating and Air Conditioning and call 850-562-3132 today and we’ll be ready to help. If you have any additional questions, you can also contact us online.
