We understand that receiving a higher than expected bill may sometimes cause some some bill shock. If you electricity bill is higher than what you may normally expect, there are some things you can look out for when trying to identify what may have contributed to the hike!
Below is a list of all the most common reasons to explain why your statement may have increased.
What's the weather been like?
Cold weather can lead to higher energy use in winter and hot weather can lead to higher use in summer – but any unexpected change in the weather can also increase your energy use.
Comparing your energy bills to the same time last year is a good way to check if you're spending more than you normally would.
Have you had any extra people at home?
Have you recently had visitors staying over? Are you taking a break from work or working from home more frequently? Is it the School holidays (if you have children) or maybe you even had a new baby?
If you have more people at home than normal, it’s likely that more energy is being used.
Have you got any new or old appliances ?
Have you bought any new appliances recently? Or are any appliances getting really old? Either of these could increase your energy use.
Appliances account for approximately 30% of home energy use. Old appliances and ones that have fallen into disrepair use significantly more energy than newer appliances – however, powering extra appliances will, of course, increase your energy use too.
Choosing appliances with a high energy efficiency star rating will help to bring those costs down.
For more information visit energyrating.gov.au.
Are you renovating?
Renovations generally cause a spike in energy usage. If you've replaced appliances, or lights, it's possible that the new ones are less efficient. Or you may have added entirely new wall sockets and electrical items that are using extra power.
For more information visit energyrating.gov.au.
Have you checked your meter?
If we can't access your meter or we sent out your bill just before your scheduled meter reading, then we may have estimated your energy usage.
The estimated reading will reflect as an ‘E’ on your bill. Once we receive an actual read, your account and statements will be adjusted.
If you'd like to avoid estimates and make your statements more accurate, then you can submit your own meter readings instead.
If you notice any discrepancies between your meter reading and the figure on your bill, please contact us immediately; our contact details are listed at the end of this document.
Have you recently moved to the property?
Your new home may use different appliances for heating and cooling that are less energy efficient than your old home.
If your new home is larger and has more lights, powerpoints, or a different hot water system, this could lead to an increase in your energy usage.
Your new home could also be in a different distribution zone, which could affect your energy bill costs - as each distributor has different charges to get the energy to your property.
Has your concession been applied?
If you’re eligible for a concession rebate, have you provided us with your concession details yet? If we have your concession details, this will reflect on all applicable statements.
If you would like to provide us with your concession details, please contact us on the details provided at the end of this document. For more information please visit Concessions FAQs.
Has a previous balance been carried forward ?
Was your previous bill paid in full? Any unpaid amounts from previous bills are carried forward to your next bill, this may make it look like your current bill is higher than usual.
Were you billed for a longer period than normal?
Your billing period may be longer than usual. When comparing your bills, check that you are comparing it with a bill with the same number of days in the billing period.
Did your plan come to an end?
If your plan has ended then it's time to select a new one, which could help reduce your energy bills. For more information, please visit our plans and pricing page.