Check these first
- Compare the same month last year. Your TEP or Southwest Gas bill shows usage, not just dollars. A colder month uses more.
- Heat pump on emergency or auxiliary heat. Electric backup heat costs more to run. If the thermostat shows "EM" or "AUX" often, read heat pump emergency heat.
- Thermostat schedule. Large overnight setbacks can make some heat pumps lean on backup heat in the morning. See smart thermostats and heat pumps.
- A dirty filter. Desert dust clogs filters fast and makes the system run longer. See filters and dust.
- Leaky ducts in the attic. Heated air lost in an attic is paid for and never felt. See ducts and attic heat.
- Space heaters. Plug-in heaters can add a lot to an electric bill.
Signs it is the equipment
- The system runs nearly nonstop but rooms stay cool.
- A heat pump blowing cool air for long stretches outside of defrost.
- Ice that stays on the outdoor unit. See defrost.
- Short cycling or new noises.
Ways to lower future bills
- A heating tune-up before the coldest weeks.
- Rebates for efficient equipment are summarized on our rebates and financing page.
- Comparing systems: heat pump vs. furnace.