Higher than Average Bill?
Your electric bill can fluctuate for a variety of reasons. Before you contact United Power about your high bill, look into these possible reasons that may explain why your bill was higher than average:
United Power’s billing cycles do not exactly align with the calendar months, so cycle lengths can vary. Sometimes holidays and meter reading schedules can shorten or extend a billing cycle. Look carefully at your bill to determine if the number of billed days was higher this month.
When extreme weather conditions exist outside, the temperature inside is adjusted. During the hottest months of the summer and the coldest months of the winter, our members often increase their energy use. Even if you did not adjust the temperature on your thermostat, colder or warmer weather probably caused your system to work overtime to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Check out our Energy Saving Tips for more information on heating and cooling efficiently.
Have you been running a space heater? The cost of operating an electric space heater can add up quickly. Learn more here.
When reviewing your electric bill, consider any recent purchases or upgrades that may be drawing additional power in your home.
Between smart technologies, electric vehicles, and other electronics and gadgets, we are becoming more "plugged in" every year. Newer electronics are also becoming more energy efficient and upgrading can result in immediate energy savings. When shopping for new electronics, look for the yellow EnergyGuide label to compare annual estimated annual energy use and identify the most energy-efficient model for your home. Also, look for ENERGY STAR® certified electronics.
Electronics are not the only culprits. Home upgrades may also be adding to your electric bill. Hot tubs, water features, and fountains often surprise homeowners when they learn how much electricity they use.
Also consider how much time you are spending at home. When the kids are out of school during the summer, they may use the TV more during the day. Likewise, when the whole family is home for the holidays, your energy usage will likely increase.
The efficiency of household appliances such as air conditioners, refrigerators, dishwashers, clothes washers, and dryers has increased dramatically over the past few years. However, older appliances in your home may be losing efficiency or a needed repair may be what is drawing more power.
Even a small leak in your water heater could make your water heater work overtime as it refills and continuously reheats water. That old refrigerator in your garage may be worth turning off if it is not being used regularly. If it is time to shop for new household appliances, choose models that have earned the government’s ENERGY STAR® rating. United Power also offers rebates on select electric appliances.
Members often ask whether their high bill could be due to a malfunctioning meter. Meter malfunctions are rarely the reason for an increase in your electric bill. In fact, your meter can be one of the most useful tools for tracking down inefficient or malfunctioning appliances. You can track energy data collected through the meter using SmartHub's Usage Explorer.
Flip the switch. Lower the blinds. Insulate your attic. Lower the temperature on your thermostat.
These may sound like simple tasks, but taking these steps around your home or business can lead to significant savings.
Our experts are here to make sure you are getting the most out of your energy. Over the years, United Power's energy solutions specialists have helped members identify significant savings opportunities worth hundreds of dollars per year. Contact our team at 303-637-1300 or click the link below to schedule an assessment.