Texans are no strangers to hot weather and high electricity bills, but even with these expectations, opening a sky-high electric bill can be overwhelming. In 2022, many people would likely see their bill soar due to the increased consumption caused by the winter freeze earlier this year. As a consumer, it’s important to take control of your electricity usage and find ways to save money on your monthly electric bill.
Here are some tips and strategies for troubleshooting a high electricity bill in Texas:
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Check your meter and electricity bill for accuracy
The first step in troubleshooting a high electricity bill is to ensure that your meter and bill are accurate. Sometimes, meters can malfunction or be misread, resulting in an incorrect reading that is reflected on your bill. Additionally, mistakes can be made during the billing process, resulting in errors on your bill.
According to the Public Utility Commission of Texas, consumers have the right to request a meter test from their utility company at no cost once every four years. If the meter is found to be inaccurate, the utility company is required to make necessary adjustments and issue a refund for any overcharges.
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Assess your electricity usage
Next, it’s important to assess your electricity usage and identify any areas where you may be using more energy than necessary. Look at your bill and see if your usage has increased significantly from the previous month. If it has, try to identify what may have caused the increase.
One common culprit is HVAC systems, which can account for up to 50% of your energy bill. According to Energy Star, homeowners can save up to $180 per year by properly maintaining their HVAC system and regularly replacing air filters.
You can also take it a step further by conducting a full energy audit with a professional.
A full energy audit is a comprehensive examination of a building’s energy usage and performance. The purpose of the audit is to identify inefficiencies and opportunities for energy savings. The audit is typically conducted by an energy auditor or consultant who is trained to evaluate energy use and make recommendations for improvements.
The first step in a full energy audit is to collect information about the building’s energy usage. This includes reviewing utility bills, analyzing energy consumption data, and examining the building’s physical characteristics, such as its age, size, and construction materials. The auditor will also interview building occupants to learn about how the building is used and to identify any energy-related concerns or issues.
Next, the auditor will perform a detailed inspection of the building, including its mechanical systems, lighting, and appliances. This may involve testing equipment and measuring energy use with specialized equipment such as infrared cameras, blower doors, and pressure gauges.
During the audit, the auditor will also look for areas of energy waste, such as air leaks, insulation gaps, and inefficient lighting or appliances. These inefficiencies can account for a significant portion of a building’s energy use and can often be remedied with relatively simple upgrades or repairs.
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Consider switching electricity plans or providers
If you’re still struggling with a high electricity bill, it may be time to switch electricity plans or providers. Many providers offer different plans with variable or fixed rates, which can affect your bill. It’s important to do your research and choose a plan that best fits your energy usage and budget.
In Texas, residents have the ability to choose their electricity provider and plan due to deregulation. According to ChooseTexasPower.org, there are over 70 retail electric providers in Texas alone, giving consumers plenty of options to shop around and find the best deal.
When looking for the best energy supplier for your needs, there are various ways to compare different companies and their offerings. Here are some of the most common ways to compare energy suppliers:
- Comparison websites: There are several comparison websites available that allow you to compare energy suppliers side-by-side. These sites typically require you to enter your postcode and energy usage details, and they will then generate a list of available suppliers and their plans. Some popular comparison sites include uSwitch, MoneySuperMarket, and Compare the Market.
- Energy brokers: Energy brokers are professionals who specialize in helping businesses and individuals find the best energy deals. Brokers typically have access to a wider range of suppliers and plans than comparison websites, and they can often negotiate better rates on behalf of their clients. However, brokers typically charge a fee for their services.
- Direct contact with suppliers: Many energy suppliers allow customers to contact them directly to discuss their needs and compare plans. This can be a good option if you already have a supplier in mind or if you have specific requirements that are not met by comparison websites or brokers.
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Conserve energy at home
There are many ways to conserve energy at home, which can help reduce your electricity bill. Simple changes like adjusting your thermostat a few degrees, using energy-efficient appliances, and turning off lights when leaving a room can make a big difference in your energy usage.
According to Energy.gov, using energy-efficient appliances can save you up to 30% on your energy bill. Additionally, turning off lights and electronics when not in use can save up to $100 per year.
There are numerous ways to conserve energy at home, many of which are relatively simple and can result in significant savings on your energy bill. Here are some examples:
- Adjust your thermostat: Adjusting your thermostat by just a few degrees can make a big difference in your energy usage. In the summer, set your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re home and turn it up a few degrees when you’re away. In the winter, set it to 68 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re home and turn it down a few degrees when you’re away.
- Use energy-efficient light bulbs: Switching to energy-efficient LED light bulbs can save you money on your energy bill and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
- Unplug electronics when not in use: Even when turned off, many electronics still use a small amount of energy when plugged in. Unplugging electronics when not in use can save you money and energy.
- Use a programmable thermostat: A programmable thermostat can automatically adjust the temperature in your home based on your schedule, which can result in significant energy savings.
- Seal air leaks: Air leaks around doors and windows can let out heated or cooled air, making your heating and cooling system work harder than it needs to. Sealing air leaks with weatherstripping or caulking can help conserve energy.
- Use ceiling fans: Ceiling fans can help circulate air throughout your home, reducing the need for air conditioning or heating.
- Use energy-efficient appliances: Energy-efficient appliances, such as refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers, use less energy and can save you money on your energy bill.
- Reduce water usage: Reducing your water usage can also save you money on your energy bill. Take shorter showers, fix leaks, and consider installing low-flow showerheads and faucets.
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Seek assistance if needed
If you’re struggling to pay your electricity bill, there are assistance programs available to help. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers financial assistance to low-income Texans who need help paying their utility bills. Additionally, some providers may offer payment plans or waive late fees for customers who are struggling to make payments.
According to the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, LIHEAP helped over 600,000 Texans in 2021 alone. Texans who are eligible for programs like SNAP or Medicaid may also be eligible for energy assistance programs.
Want to check out more? Be sure to read this article from Niccolo on the essential 2023 comparison sites to get the best energy deals.