There are many variables that can cause your electricity costs to fluctuate each month:
- Weather: Cold winter days and seasonal winds can cause you to require more heat during the winter.
- Bill Period: The number of days in the billing period can affect your bill. Your daily energy consumption may remain stable, however, if your bill covers a longer period it might look like you’ve used more electricity.
- Increased energy use: If you have a new baby, live-in relatives, tenants or houseguests you may experience higher energy use.
- Changes to your home: A new home office or hot tub can contribute to higher energy use. Or, if you are renovating, you will use more energy during renovations to heat and run your home.
- Winter or seasonal: Throughout winter the days are shorter, so lights are on for longer periods of time. Holiday lighting also adds to your energy consumption. Dehumidifiers will use more electricity in the summer when the outdoor humidity levels are higher.
- Appliance use: Aside from your heating system, the following appliances are likely to be the biggest energy users in your home: portable space heaters, electric water heaters, refrigerators and dehumidifiers
Remember, you can save money by making wise energy choices and purchases. Look for the ENERGY STAR® symbol.