Three Electrical Problems That Can Cause Your Domestic Electric Bill To Shoot Up
Has your monthly electricity bill gone up recently? Several factors come into play if you suddenly see a total figure on the bill that is higher than it used to be. One of the most likely causes of soaring electric bills is some sort of problem within your household electrical system.
When the increase in your electric bill is caused by an electrical fault, the increase is usually accompanied by signs of electrical system malfunction, such as flickering lights, buzzing sounds coming from electrical outlets and light bulbs burning out too often. In such cases, bringing in a qualified residential electrician to reveal the cause of the increase may prove to be a prudent move.
There are several electrical issues that could cause your household electric bill to rise. Here are a few common ones you should know about:
1. Older 'Energy Hog' Appliances
When was the last time you replaced the electrical appliances in your home? Household electronics degrade and lose their efficiency over time. Hence, there is always a risk that older appliances in the home may become energy hogs.
Ditching older appliances that use too much electricity for new, energy-efficient models will help to lower your electric bill. This is particularly true if your home is full of energy-hungry appliances like electric water heaters, refrigerators, cookers, clothes washers/dryers and dishwashers.
2. Faulty Electric Wiring
A buzzing sound coming from an electrical outlet when an appliance is plugged in and turned on is a sign of faulty electrical wiring. It may also be the sound of electricity going to waste.
If your electrical wiring is bad, it can cause electric leaks which will cause plugged-in appliances to overheat and use more electricity than they normally do. The increase in electricity consumption will cause your electric bill to shoot up.
3. Faulty Electric Meter
Electric meters can get broken. Your electric utility meter may be broken if it continues to spin even if the main electricity is turned off.
A residential electrician can help ascertain that your electric meter is not functioning properly and provide the corroborative evidence needed to appeal to your utility company regarding your inflated bill.
High electric bills are a tell-tale sign that your home's electrical system may be faulty and needs repair work. The best thing about hiring an electrician to identify the cause of your high bill is that any electrical safety concerns regarding your home will be resolved.
Reach out to an electrician near you for more information about your electrical repairs.