From getting an inspection to changing providers, there are ways to avoid electric bill sticker shock.
CINCINNATI — After weeks of hot July weather, our summer electric bills are starting to arrive, and for many families, those bills are a lot higher than last month.
As if the cost of groceries isn’t high enough, now shoppers like David Webb are dealing with soaring electric bills too.
“Much higher than what it was the past month,” he said. “I’d say close to $100 higher.”
Jay Thomas said her latest bill was one of the highest she’s ever received.
“It was about $250,” she said.
Now electric costs are up this year 5% to 10% nationally. It all has to do with high demand and the cost of updating the electric grid.
So, what can you do? Rob Evans is an AC technician. He’s headed into his busy season as consumers crank up the air conditioning. His best advice is not to skip an annual tune up or you could be in for trouble.
“Things could clog. Things can break. Things could freeze,” he said.
A tune-up will ensure your system is running its best.
“Want to make sure it’s got the right amount of refrigerant in it,” he said. “Make sure it’s running as efficient as possible.”
He also says to check your filter every couple of months.
There are other ways to avoid a mid-summer bill shock.
- If you’re allowed to switch electric suppliers, ask about a better rate.
- Turn up your AC. Every 7 degrees higher lowers your bill 10%
- Close shades and drapes during the day
- Run fans. They keep you cool for just pennies a day.
Genesee Thomas is going to take some extra steps because she just got an alert that her rates may be going up again.
”They told me in an email that it’s gonna go up sometime this summer,” she said.
Remember, electric rates are not going down anytime soon, so take a few simple steps to lower that bill and that way you don’t waste your money.
