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Yes, a dirty air filter can cause a higher electric bill. That’s because clogged filters make it harder for air to flow through your HVAC system, which forces it to work harder and use more energy. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing dirty filters can save you between 5% and 15% in utility costs.

A home energy audit costs about $420 on average, with prices ranging from $100 to $2,250 or more. The final cost depends on factors like your home's size, location, the thoroughness of the audit, and the specific tests performed. A basic Level 1 walk-through inspection typically costs between $150 and $200, while a comprehensive Level 3 audit with detailed testing and a report costs around $900. Homeowners may be able to use the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act’s Energy Efficient Home Improvement credit to cover up to $150 of the audit cost.

Costs for common individual tests include:

• Blower door test: $350

• Duct testing: $100

• HERS test: $375

• HERS certification: $200

• Infrared imaging: $200

Yes, energy-efficient options such as LEDs and solar-powered lights are available. These alternatives consume less electricity, resulting in lower utility costs. They are also more environmentally friendly due to their reduced carbon footprint and longer lifespan.

It’s not recommended to turn off your breaker box in hopes of saving electricity. Breaker boxes were not designed to constantly be switched on and off. Therefore, turning off breakers unnecessarily can cause costly damage that outnumbers any energy savings. Only flip your breakers if absolutely necessary when troubleshooting an electrical issue.