If your CenterPoint bill keeps climbing, your HVAC system is the first place to look. It accounts for 40–50% of your electricity usage in Houston.
Top HVAC reasons for high bills
- Dirty air filter — Forces the system to work harder. Replace every 30 days in Houston summer.
- Dirty condenser coil — The outdoor unit can’t release heat efficiently when coated in dirt and debris.
- Low refrigerant — A leak means the system runs longer to cool the same space.
- Old or oversized system — A 15+ year old unit or improperly sized system wastes energy.
- Duct leaks — Cooled air escaping into the attic means your AC runs longer for less result.
- Thermostat issues — A miscalibrated thermostat can cause the system to run more than needed.
Quick wins to lower your bill
- Replace your air filter (seriously — this is the #1 thing)
- Set thermostat to 78°F when home, higher when away
- Close blinds on sun-facing windows during the day
- Make sure vents aren’t blocked by furniture
- Schedule a maintenance visit to clean coils and check refrigerant
- Consider a programmable or smart thermostat
When to consider replacing your system
If your system is 15+ years old and your bills keep rising despite maintenance, a newer high-efficiency unit (16–18 SEER) can cut cooling costs by 20–30%. That’s $30–$60/month in Houston summer. We provide free, no-obligation estimates on replacements.
Want to lower your bill?