OK. I am so upset right now. We just bought a new house (supposed to be energy efficient right). It's 2,500 SF and we just got a partial bill from Reliant. What it shows and what I've been reading on the meter since then is crazy. I called Reliant and they said they can't have anyone come and check the meter because it is new. So unless it is reading "0" they won’t come out. I called the builder which is still on the grounds here because the subdivision isn't even 50% built out and he said he's calling the Heat/Air unit people (Tempo) and then after that he'll get the electrician out here. But I really feel like he's just humoring me. I mean we are not extravagant people. Once we got the first bill we did a lock down on power items. I mean no lights on during the day and at night minimal lights. The heat is on 66 all day long to which I feel freezing all day. At night it's only on 68. I don't get it. A house just down the street said their bill was $198 and their floor plan is bigger. We are both one story and she stays at home too. Has this ever happened to any of you? I just really feel like there is something wrong. This used to be a model house so the past bill history is high anyway. Reliant says what we are showing isn't too far off from that. Of course they don't understand when I try to explain it is now a residence and not a model home. This is a nice home with all this energy efficient stuff. So what's the deal? Am I being totally off the mark here? What am I missing? I would appreciate any advice or help. I am so frustrated right now I just don't know what to do. This house thank goodness is still under warranty for the next 10 years, but gracious I can't afford a $500/ month power bill. It's just crazy.
Thanks for any help,
S.
My home is only 1375 sf and we average $200- $400 on our electric. I was told it would be closer to $100- $200, but that hasn't been the case. I keep the temp low in the winter and high in the summer so I wish I had some good advice, but I am in the same boat.
I am going to disagree with the previous posters. I have a 2900 sq. ft. house. Our electric bill last month was $150. Do you think they are actually reading your meter? Sometimes they will actually estimate your bill. Perhaps they are including the hook-up charges in that bill & that is what is bumping it up. Just a thought!
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A lot of people mentioned powertochoose, but there is so many hidden fees from different companies they do not list on the website. You really cannot base everything on the $/kw. Some companies advertised 8.9cents per kw, but its based on 2000kw usage and with $10.00~20.00 monthly charges.
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Hi S. - I have to say $500 for a $2500 square foot home is probably not too far off. TX electric is very expensive. I'd suggest having someone come out and take a peek at the meter and the energy efficiency of your home (windows, door seals, etc) but overall that's probably where the bill will sit - give or take $50 bucks.
However, if you are serious about a bigger income, please let me know as that I can help you with - yes, from home!
C.
Hi S.,
Have you shopped around for your electricity rates? Try this website:
http://www.powertochoose.org/
I gathered that you are currently using Reliant and they are one of the higher rates (just behind TXU) currently in my area at $0.142/kWh
I looks like there are companies offering rates as low as $0.108/kWh which could lower your power bill drastically. You may want to ask your neighbors with the low bill who they use.
Good Luck!
E.
First, I would see if they could have it pro-rated for the time you've been there (instead of the WHOLE month) as it could have electrical usage from when they were still building the house in which case the lights were left on ALL the time and power tools were being run constantly (I know because my husband's a builder). Then, see if it has all the hook-up and deposit fees on it if you've just moved in. You also may be able to call the electric company and see if you can make payments. Hope that helps.
Unfortunately, I have to agree with the others. $500 for that size house is probably about right, even with the savings you should have. Mine is just over 2000 sq ft and our bill last month was $410. Texas utilities are ridiculous...no matter what company you use.
As for your neighbor having a bill for $198, I'd have to see it to believe it :( I would LOVE to have a bill that low.
