When an unusually high number appears on your electric or water bill, take it as a sign that there may be an issue with your property. If left untreated, you may face more significant issues and increased bills down the road. Making changes or repairs to your property can help to lower your monthly costs.
Faulty Appliances or Wiring
One reason for an unexpected spike in your electric bill may be issues with appliances like washing machines, air conditioners or refrigerators. When these are not working properly, they can consume more energy than normal. Faulty wiring may also be the culprit of your increased bill and can pose fire hazards as well. It is best to get these checked at the first sign of an issue which may be a higher-than-normal utility bill.
Leaking Pipes
A small leak can easily go unnoticed but the spike in your water bill surely will not. A leaking toilet, dripping faucet, broken pipe or leak in a service line could be the source of your unusually high-water bill. It is best not to turn a blind eye to the slow drip from your faucet, as this can waste more than 20 gallons of water per day. Outdoor leaks from irrigation lines or between your water meter and home can also be a cause of your increased water bill. Check your lawn for unusually damp areas which may be an indication of an underground leak.
Air Conditioning Issues
Your thermostat may be set too low if you have noticed an increase in your electric bill. Setting your thermostat to a lower temperature will not cool off your home faster, but it will cause your air conditioner to run for longer, consequently increasing your bill.
A clogged air conditioner filter restricts airflow and will cause your unit to run less efficiently. Change your air filter religiously to prevent increased costs and keep your unit running properly. Having a clean air filter will also help keep the air you are breathing in cleaner.
A poorly insulated home will cause the heat or cool air to leak outside of your house, making your air conditioner work even harder to keep your home at the desired temperature. Investing in insulation is a long-term solution that will help keep the temperature in your home controlled, and your electric bill down.
Contact Us Today for Assistance
If you have experienced an insurance loss from a hurricane, tropical storm or other major weather event, don’t be surprised if the insurance company’s first reaction is to claim that your damage is due to some pre-existing condition or assert that your claim is not covered under the terms of your policy or even cancel your policy based on recently-discovered “errors” in your application.
But don’t worry, experienced and aggressive attorneys from ILG are on your side and will advocate on your behalf to see that you get the benefits you are entitled to. At ILG, we take the time to analyze and interpret your policy and understand the full measure of damages available to you. We work with construction experts, restoration professionals and others to determine the facts.
