Wasting energy due to a home’s inefficiency is a common reason for an electric bill to be higher than expected. This is a factor over which we have more control. Being aware of them is the first step.
Thermal integrity (Building Envelope)
New building codes and building materials make modern homes more efficient. However, the older your home is the more likely its thermal integrity is very low and costing you money. You might find you have air leaks, insufficient amounts of insulation, or other problems. Windows are another area that may cause a home to be inefficient, but be aware that the replacement costs are sometimes greater than the energy savings they provide.
Heating & Cooling Systems
If you have an older home with poor thermal integrity and an older, inefficient HVAC system, you have a double whammy. Electric Resistance Heaters and AC units are the biggest users of energy in any home, hands down, and become increasingly less efficient as they get older. Replacing your HVAC system will be the biggest single action you can take to impact your seasonal variable energy use.
Also don’t forget your HVAC’s ducting. Too many bends, improper sizing, or leaks will make your system work harder.
Appliances
As part of a complete efficiency update, consider that older and redundant appliances can waste a lot of electricity, especially in unconditioned spaces. For instance: How much is that extra fridge toiling in the hot garage costing you?