Why Your Electric Bill Is Spiking — And How to Cut It by 20%

If your electric bill has jumped this summer, you’re not alone. Gloria Cardona of Palm Springs says her bill soared from $400 to $600 in just a few months. But the real culprit may not be what you expect—it could be the tiny air leaks inside your home.

NBC Palm Springs' Mary Strong investigates what's behind these rising costs and how simple fixes can lead to big savings. One major factor is air infiltration—when warm outdoor air seeps in through cracks or gaps, even with windows and doors closed. This forces your air conditioner to work harder, triggering a cycle of short bursts that drive up energy use and your bill.

According to local AC expert Dan, heat naturally moves toward cold air, and the more leaks your home has, the more energy you lose. He recommends setting your thermostat to 78 degrees and sealing those gaps. “You don’t need a pricey pro,” he says. “A handyman—or even you—can seal those leaks.”

Other key tips:

• Change your air filter every month to prevent airflow restriction and AC damage.

• Hose off your outdoor condenser to improve airflow and avoid overheating.

These basic maintenance tasks can reduce your electric bill by up to 20% annually—no special tools or contractors needed.

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