“Energy vampires,” air leaks could cost homeowners hundreds as energy bills soar

For the second winter in a row, Americans have seen their energy bills soar as home heating bills rose nearly 36% — a 10-year high.

Supply shortages, exacerbated by Russia’s war against Ukraine, are causing the rise. Natural gas is expected to increase nearly 29% over the last fiscal year. Heating oil is up nearly 27% and electricity costs are up more than 10%, according to the National Energy Assistance Directors Association, an education and policy organization.

But there are ways to save.

Some energy experts recommend looking for devices that use energy — like coffee makers and cell phone chargers — that continue to use energy even when not in use. According to Energy Star, a program run by the US government to promote energy efficiency, 75% of the energy consumed by devices is caused by devices that are not in use but are still connected.

Known as “energy vampires,” these culprits can account for up to 20% of your electricity bill.

“We always encourage homeowners to unplug anything that’s not in use,” said Chris Villanueva, a home technician who audits energy usage.

Audio systems might cost $20 a year, while desktop computers might cost $40 a year — when not in use.

Timers or socket strips that can be easily unplugged could help to save costs. Additionally, new Energy Star qualified appliances typically consume fewer watts, which can result in further savings over the long term.

In addition to “energy vampires,” Villanueva says the air that escapes through window and door cracks alone can cost homeowners hundreds of dollars a year. Plugging in can help keep heating systems from running excessively.

He recently spent the day checking for air leaks at Bob and Allison Zsunkan’s Connecticut home after their energy bills got so high that they had to rebudget their spending and 401(k). Bob Zsunkan said her oil bill went up $160 a month.

Villanueva also recommends setting the thermostat between 65 and 68 degrees, switching to LED light bulbs and improving insulation.

An estimated 6.2 million households will receive government assistance with their energy bills this season, according to the National Energy Assistance Directors Association. It’s the biggest increase by a year since 2009.

Through the Inflation Mitigation Act, energy-efficient upgrades like switching to a heat pump can offer a tax credit of up to $2,000.

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