This means your monthly bills for heating, ventilation and air conditioning will continue to rise, too.

“Electricity prices have climbed 36% over the last five years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics,” says Investopedia, a financial information website.

And rates will rise another 4.2 percent in 2026, according to the Energy Information Administration, a federal agency.

“Similarly, if you heat your home with natural gas, expect bigger bills next year. The EIA expects wholesale gas prices will be 16% higher on average in 2026 than this year, as production has stayed flat while the U.S. is exporting more of its gas in order to meet higher demand abroad,” Investopedia said.

This is why it’s so important to keep your HVAC as energy-efficient as possible.

What to do

• Clean filters, coils and other components every month or so.

• Have a trained technician check your system once or twice a year to make sure everything is running well and no parts need replacing.

• Consider a new system if your current furnace, boiler or heat pump shows signs of aging – frequent breakdowns, higher bills etc.

Most of these systems will last 15 or 20 years, but government studies show they start to lose efficiency after about 10 years. A new system requires money, of course, but it can prove its worth with sharply reduced utility bills, few or no repairs, and the peace of mind that comes with a new warranty.

If you do decide to get a new HVAC system, first shop for a reliable, experienced contractor. Be sure to find one who will work with your local utility to get the maximum rebate available.

To learn more about the reasons why heating and cooling costs will rise, see https://www.investopedia.com/where-energy-costs-are-headed-in-2026-11862925

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