Billing Periods
Electric bills vary due to the length of the billing period, which can range from 27 – 33 days. Your bill provides an average of the kilowatt-hours used and the related cost per day. Be sure to look at these figures – not just the total dollar amount of the bill – when comparing monthly bills.

Monthly Fluctuations
Your use of electricity fluctuates monthly, even if the number of days in the billing period are the same. Weather conditions, a new appliance, a vacation, a change in lifestyle, a new baby or additional family member, or guest, can all affect your monthly bill. Houseguests may contribute to higher energy use through increased meal preparation, loads of laundry, and bathing.

Seasonal Use
On shorter, cooler winter days, one can expect to use more electricity due to increased lighting and hot water use. Longer, warmer summer days warrant longer use of air conditioners and fans. Extra trips to the refrigerator/freezer for cool drinks and ice also use more electricity.

Vacations
Your bill may be lower, but if it is not, check the dates of the billing period. Do they coincide with the days you were on vacation? Many electric appliances continue to work even when you are on vacation – the refrigerator, water heater, clocks, security lights, etc. – unless you have turned the circuit breakers off. Also, extra laundry may have been done before and after your vacation.

Production costs
The fuel and purchased power we use to produce electricity fluctuate in cost; any increase or decrease in these costs will be reflected in your monthly bill. In addition, billing rates occasionally change after justification and approval.

Why Your Electric Bill May Not Be The Same As Your Neighbors’

Neighbors with similar electric bills are uncommon, even if their homes are identical in size, have the same number of family members, and have the same type and number of appliances. Each family has its own unique interests and lifestyles. Some families cook a lot, use more hot water, and use appliances more. Other families practice using energy more efficiently. This difference is reflected in their monthly utility bill. The use of electricity varies according to a family’s: needs; activities; and the number, age, type and efficiency of appliances. Your bill will rarely, if ever, be the same as your neighbors’.

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