Think twice before comparing your electric bill

You’ve heard the saying, “that’s like comparing apples to oranges.” Granted, both fruits make great snack choices, but that’s where the comparisons stop. YEC wants to help you have a manageable electric bill monthly. With summer weather now here, you can expect a higher bill due to the extreme temperature difference between the inside of your home and the outside weather. The greater the difference, the more energy is needed to maintain comfort.

YEC recently introduced our members to “Beat the Peak.” This free and voluntary effort gives you the opportunity to reduce your energy use during the time of the day when power use peaks, such as summer afternoons when temperatures are at their highest. If you haven’t signed up yet, we encourage you to visit EnergySmartSC.org. Also, this month, we are announcing the launch of the “Home Energy Adventure” from Touchstone Energy, which will help you learn how to improve energy efficiency in your home and, ultimately, save money.

While I’m on the subject of saving energy and money, did you know YEC’s residential electric rates, on average, have not increased during the past four years and, in 2016, rates slightly decreased? We also continue to be the fastest growing co-op in the state and have some of the lowest rates.

Now, let’s talk about your monthly electric bill. You may be tempted to compare yours to the bill of your friends and neighbors. However, comparing bills seldom reveals a satisfactory explanation, because it’s like comparing apples to oranges. While there may be some similarities, there are far more differences that affect the electric bill.

There are many variables to take into consideration. Such as, how many people reside in your home? Of these residents, how many are children, teenagers and adults? Do the occupants bathe in a tub or do they shower; how often and for how long? How much hot water is consumed daily? How often do you wash and dry your clothes?

Your idea of “comfort” is another major contributor to your home’s electric bill. For example, do you set your air conditioner to 78 or 68 degrees? How many televisions do you own, and how often are they used? Do you have an extra refrigerator or freezer? Do you run a well pump? Consider everything you own that plugs into a socket and how often it is used. It adds up quickly.

As you can see, there are dozens of considerations and questions to be asked, when it comes to energy consumption, and it isn’t feasible to compare your electric bill. The reality is no two homes are alike, and no two families use electricity the same way.

For more energy-saving tips, visit the Energy Savings section on our website or give us a call. We’re here to help, and we’re always looking out for you!