What causes energy bills to suddenly increase?

Energy costs vary, but here are some common reasons why they may suddenly increase:

1. Extreme weather. Sudden changes in temperature can put a real strain on heating or cooling system, and your energy bills.
2. Seasonal heating equipment. In the winter months, engine block heaters, plug-in space heaters, heat tape, electric blankets, humidifiers, heating pads, and animal stock stank heaters are some items that will add to your monthly energy bill. In the summer months, fans, air conditioning, dehumidifiers, refrigerator/freezers in unconditioned spaces, watering your gardens or animals are all items to take into account.
3. Change in occupancy. Kids moving back home or weekend guests bring unwelcome energy costs. Lights get left on longer, more devices need charging, and more hot water goes down the drain.
4. Equipment failure. If your heat pump compressor fails in the winter, it triggers back-up electric coils to provide heat, which is more expensive than using the compressor. A leaking water heater will also use more energy to heat cold make-up water.
5. Air leaks. Cracked caulking around windows or worn weatherstripping in exterior doors can create gaps that let conditioned air out, making your heating or cooling system work harder.

What you can do to save:

• Install LED lights. They use less energy than conventional bulbs and last longer.
• Have your HVAC system cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional.
• Change your furnace filter monthly.
• Use a timer for plugging in your engine block heaters during the winter.
• Use a timer for holiday lighting.
• Repair or replace any appliances or equipment that are malfunctioning
• Air seal windows and doors with caulk and weatherstripping. Check for gaps in your attic and basement as well.
• Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators to reduce hot water consumption.
• Unplug unused electronic devices, or plug them into an advanced power strip, which automatically switches off power to devices not in use.

Still stumped? Consider scheduling an appointment for a home energy assessment.  

Beltrami Electric's Energy Experts just might save you more than you think.  Over the years, our experts have uncovered inefficient equipment, malfunctioning equipment like wells or pumps, lifestyle adjustments that add up, and other household changes you can make to save you hundreds of dollars per year. Our Energy Experts are here to help you make the most of the energy you use.

Contact our member services department today at (218) 444-2540 or (800) 955-6083 to learn more about a home energy assessment (electric evaluation).  This service is provided at no additional charge to cooperative members.  Please note: The member is required to meet our Energy Expert at your home or business for the scheduled appointment.

How to calculate the cost to run an appliance:

Do you know what it costs to run a plug-in space heater, or that additional refrigerator in your garage or basement? Here is a general calculation you can use.

Wattage of item  x   hours used per month  x  kwh rate  =  monthly cost

Example: most space heaters are 1,500 watts. If you operate a space heater for 8 hours a day (30 days a month) and your rate is 12 cents per kWh, you would use the following calculation:

1,500 watts x 240 hours/month x 12 cents/kWh / 1,000 = $43.20/month