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What your friend's bill cannot tell you
September, 2006
It's easy to draw a false conclusion if you compare your electricity bill with your neighbor's.
Your bill could be higher than one neighbor's, even though your home is smaller. It could be lower than another neighbor's, even though your house is larger. Here's why:
- The efficiency of home cooling and heating systems vary. The quality and maintenance of these systems — and crucially, the quality of ductwork — are big factors.
- Another difference might be the amount of insulation, which affects heat loss or gain in your home. The same goes for the amount of shade, your home's orientation to the sun, even the type and color of your roof. They all contribute to energy use by heating and cooling systems.
- Use of electricity varies greatly from home to home. One family may have several children. Kids (and parents) who open the refrigerator often make it work harder to cool foods. Temperature settings also make a difference. The same concept applies to air conditioning and heating: More people means these units must work more, and use more power, to do the job.
- No two families do the same amount of washing and drying. Again, appliance efficiency comes into play. How much you cook, and how you cook (microwave vs. stovetop, etc.) also varies. Ditto for hot water use. Look into all these factors in your home before you compare notes with neighbors. Consider more efficient options in your own home. Call York Electric Cooperative for advice and assistance. Remember, we all have the power to make a difference.
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