Welcome to your hub for energy savings! At Claverack Rural Electric Cooperative, we're committed to empowering you to make smart energy choices that not only save you money but also contribute to a more sustainable future.
Explore the resources and information here to discover practical tips, valuable insights, and details about our energy efficiency programs designed to help you reduce your energy consumption and lower your bills. Let's work together to power a brighter, more efficient tomorrow!
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High Bill Concerns?
Experiencing a higher-than-usual electric bill can be concerning, and we want to help you understand why. This page has a variety of helpful information and resources to address your high bill concerns and identify potential solutions.
Here are some tips/strategies tailored to our climate and characteristics in North-Central Pennsylvania.
Temperature
As the outside temperature changes, it's critical to remember that the weather does affect your bill.
Depending upon the hours of use, monthly electric bills could increase by over $150 per device by using:
- Portable electric heaters
- Engine block heaters
- Heat tapes or heat lamps
- Livestock water de-icers
- Air conditioning units
- Dehumidifiers
- Pool pumps or pond fountains
If you have electric baseboard heat or have a heat pump at home, your bills will increase during the cold winter temperatures. Furnace fans and circulating pumps will also result in more electric use when the temperatures drop. If you have central air or heat pump A/C you can expect your electric usage will go up with the temperature.
Recent Changes
Have you recently added:
- A new device or appliance to your home
- A pet that requires a special habitat powered by electricity
- Decorative or halogen lighting
- Any additions to your home or new outbuildings that are heated/cooled by electricity
- A hot tub
- New members to your household
New Problems?
Have there been problems/malfunctions with any of the following:
- Well pump
- Water heater
- Pressure tank/switch
- Heat pump
- Refrigerator/freezer
Timeframe
When your electric bill has increased considerably, it is important to look at the timeframe the bill covers. Be sure to look at the "Services From and To" dates located on page 2 of your bill. What may have been going on during that time period that would have increased your electric consumption? For detailed information to assist you with understanding your bill, click here.
Comparison
Comparing your bill to the bill of someone else is not a true reflection of what your electric consumption should be. The only accurate way to estimate your electric consumption is to look at all of your appliances, electronics, lighting, and other devices, as well as the number of hours they are used each day. Remember, you also have to include appliances or tools that you may only use seasonally or occasionally.
You can calculate the cost to operate any device if you know the wattage (often found on a data plate or tag) and the hours used. Simply use this calculation: Watts x hours in use (for the month) divided by 1,000 = kWhs x $0.14 (Claverack's current combined price per kWh*) = monthly cost to operate the device. As an example, we'll calculate the use of an average space heater used 24 hours a day for the month: 1500 watts x 24 hours x 30 days / 1,000 = 1,080 kWh x $0.14 = $151.20
Click here for detailed information on rates.
Resource Library
Explore our library of downloadable resources for in-depth information on a variety of energy-saving strategies. These PDFs offer practical guidance and cover a range of approaches, suitable for different skill levels and budgets, empowering you to make informed decisions about your energy use and savings.
Do It Yourself
Explore more detailed projects for upgrading the energy efficiency of your home. Whether a DIY’er or working with a contractor, these documents help provide detailed guidance.
Stay informed and discover new ways to save energy with our regularly updated collection of Energy Solutions Articles. Here, you'll find timely insights, practical tips, and the latest information on a range of topics designed to help you make smart energy choices throughout the year. Check back each quarter for fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to enhance your energy efficiency.