If it weren’t for air conditioning, most of us probably wouldn’t live in the Valley. However, climate control is one of the main contributors to electric bills. And as winter approaches, heating costs can add to that burden.

Before the summer heat returns, consumers looking to lower their costs can take advantage of a home energy audit.

Glendale resident Matt Shannon set up an audit with a contractor suggested by APS after noticing his bills were almost twice that of his neighbors — and climbing.

So he set up an appointment with Elena Chrimat and Alex Williams of Ideal Energy. They helped identify savings opportunities around Shannon’s house like a new pump for the pool, installing energy efficient bulbs and sealing up outlets. 

After completing a full assessment of the house they’ll recommend changes Shannon can make to save up to 10 to 30 percent on his monthly bill. However, those changes come at a high cost. A new pool pump alone could cost several thousand dollars, but APS provides rebates to offset some of the expense.       

APS Program Manager Maggie Gibbs said funding for the home audit program comes from rate payers.

“So there is a charge on customers bills that a certain piece of that bill is actually going into these energy efficiency programs," Gibbs said. "So greatly benefits customers who participate in them since they’re paying for them."

Despite positive feedback for the Home Energy Audit program, its future is uncertain. The Arizona Corporation Commission is currently reviewing the state’s energy efficiency policies and could potentially remove them all together.