4. Water heater problems - If an element is burned out or sediment has built up inside the tank, your usage can be high because one element has to work harder.

5. Water leaks - Water leaks in pipes, esp. hot water leaks, can cause your water pump & water heater to use more electricty.

6. Insulation factors - Not only insulation, but window and floor coverings also affect your bill because they can have an impact on the efficiency of heating and air-conditioning systems.

7. Holidays/parties - You may have used more energy than usual if the house was packed with friends and relatives or if you cooked more often than normal (like at holidays).

8. Structural differences - Comparing your bill to a neighbor's is not fair when considering the numerous differences in homes. Insulation, windows and doors are major factors in helping you cut your electric bill. And even though your home may have been built at the same time and by the same builder, previous homeowners may have made improvements of which you are not even aware.

All these variables play a part in the actual number of kilowatts used each month, so be very aware of your changes in use, and try to keep an eye on it in the future.

More reasons!

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Did you know that you don't have to pay the full amount of your bill all at one time? It might be easier for you, & your budget, to break up your balance & pay it on a weekly basis. Instead of waiting to pay the one lump sum when your bill is due, you can pay on the balance weekly. For example, if your bill is $160.00 & you pay $40.00 a week, the bill is paid in four weeks & you won’t be late. Our average billing cycle is 28 days. So by paying weekly you pay the balance in full before you get your next month’s bill.