Here are some basic items to check first when your electric usage is higher than normal:
- Check your electric meter to see if the dial is spinning.
- Shut all breakers off at the panel box. See if your meter dial stops spinning. It should.
- Turn breakers on one by one and see which one starts the meter dial moving. Then see what the breaker controls (hot water, freezer, etc.)
- Read your meter each day at the same time for three or four days. This will show you how many kilowatt hours you use per day.
A great way to track your usage and educate your household about energy efficiency is with a household power monitoring device. There are several models available such as TED: The Energy Detective, Cent a Meter and EMS-2020.
You can use the online Home Energy Audit to see where your household may be able to be more energy efficent, or call Energy Services at 376-3571 for a free in-home energy audit.
There are a number of reasons your bill could be higher than you expect:
- Weather
- Vacation/Extended Absence
- Increased Use (guests, new family members, tenants)
- Change in Lifestyle
- Home Renovations or Additions
- Long Than Usual Billing Period
- Extra Appliance Use (new appliance, extra baking)
Did you know that 50% of home energy use if for space heating? 30% is for water heating, 15% for lighting and 5% for appliances. Make sure Vampire Electronics are not sucking your wallet dry – and check out these Simple Tips & Practices to help you save energy and money.
For more information, contact us.