Resolving Unexpectedly High Electricity Usage or Bills
Electricity usage spikes and unexpectedly high bills can be concerning and challenging to diagnose. The following guide will help you identify potential causes, monitor your usage, and take steps to resolve the issue.
Step 1: Verify Your Meter and Billing Information
Check Meter Readings: Compare the meter readings displayed on the actual meter with those listed on your bill. Ensure they match to confirm accurate billing information. Look for any 'E' indicators on the bill to check if estimated readings were used.
Monitor Daily Meter Readings: Record your meter readings daily at the same time and track any associated appliance usage or activities. Subtract the previous day's reading from the current one to calculate your daily consumption.
Step 2: Use the Frank Energy App to Track Usage
Identify Usage Patterns: The app allows you to monitor spikes in energy consumption and understand when your usage is highest. Use this information to correlate with specific appliances or behaviors.
Compare Readings: Check past bills under sections like 'Controlled Reading' to compare against current consumption.
Step 3: Perform a Load Test to Diagnose Consumption
How to Conduct a Load Test Using an Advanced Meter:
Switch off all appliances at the wall.
View the kW consumption number on your meter's load screen.
Turn on one appliance and observe the meter to determine its electricity usage.
Repeat for other appliances to identify any high electricity-consuming devices.
By conducting a load test, you can identify whether specific appliances, such as heaters, dryers, or faulty electronics, are causing unexpected electricity usage.
Step 4: Investigate Common Causes of Increased Usage
Common factors contributing to higher-than-expected power usage include:
Seasonal changes: Colder weather increasing heating demand, wet weather increasing dryer use.
Inefficient appliances: Old or faulty appliances consuming more power than expected.
Inadvertent consumption: Appliances running even when turned off, or other household members using more power.
For rental properties, consult your landlord or property manager about arranging an electrician to check for electrical faults in the property.
Step 5: Escalate to Professionals if Needed
If the above steps do not resolve your concerns, or if equipment faults are suspected:
Consult a certified electrician if recurring, unexplained spikes persist. Common fault indicators might include unusually high water heating times or old appliances malfunctioning.
Final Note
Keep tracking your energy usage using the steps provided. For further clarity, consider reaching out to Frank Energy support for guidance or using the Frank Energy app for detailed usage insights.