15/17 Suny Jigide Street, By Celestial Way, Ogudu Lagos.
Mon-Fri 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
If your electric bill has been giving you sticker shock lately, you’re not alone. Many households are seeing unexpected spikes in their electricity costs, and the reasons aren’t always obvious. Whether you’re living in a small apartment or a large family home, rising energy expenses can feel frustrating and overwhelming.
The good news? You don’t have to keep overpaying. In this post, we’ll break down the most common reasons your electric bill might be higher than expected and offer practical, effective ways to bring it back down.
Many devices continue to use electricity even when they’re turned off, such as TVs, gaming consoles, chargers, microwaves, and more. It might seem minimal, but over time, this “phantom” load adds up.
Fix it: Use power strips and turn them off when not in use. Consider smart plugs that cut power completely when the device is off.
Older appliances, especially refrigerators, washers, and dryers, can use significantly more electricity than newer, energy-efficient models.
Fix it: Look for appliances with the Energy Star label. If you can’t replace them right away, clean coils, filters, and lint traps regularly to improve efficiency.
If your heating or cooling system is running constantly, your home might be losing conditioned air through poorly sealed windows, doors, or attic spaces.
Fix it: Seal gaps with caulking or weatherstripping. Add insulation in attics or basements. Even heavy curtains can help maintain stable indoor temperatures.
Heating and cooling account for nearly half of a typical home’s energy bill. Setting the thermostat too high (in winter) or too low (in summer) can quickly run up your costs.
Fix it: Set your thermostat to 68°F in winter and 78°F in summer when you’re home. Use a programmable or smart thermostat to reduce use when you’re away.
Water heating is another big energy expense. Long showers, constantly running dishwashers, and older water heaters all contribute.
Fix it: Use cold water for laundry when possible. Install low-flow shower-heads. Lower your water heater’s temperature to 120°F.
Still using incandescent bulbs or leaving lights on all the time? You’re likely spending more than you need to.
Fix it: Switch to LED bulbs. Use timers, dimmers, or motion sensors to control lighting automatically.
Sometimes, it’s not your usage that’s the problem; it’s the rate you’re being charged. Some areas have time-of-use rates that spike during peak hours.
Fix it: Check your electric plan. Shift heavy usage (like laundry or dish-washing) to off-peak hours if you’re on a variable-rate plan.
Unplug unused devices: Especially in guest rooms or home offices.
Use ceiling fans: They help you feel cooler or warmer, allowing you to adjust the thermostat by a few degrees.
Perform a home energy audit: Many utility companies offer this at a low cost.
Install solar panels: If you own your home and plan to stay long-term, solar can significantly reduce your bill over time.
A high electric bill doesn’t have to be your new normal. With a bit of detective work and some smart changes, you can take control of your energy use and your wallet. Start small, track your monthly usage, and adjust as needed. Every little bit helps.
For consultation and power audit, contact us:
Call / WhatsApp (+234) 9130003339 (Office)
