- Billing Period: In a billing cycle, the number of days may range anywhere from 28 to 33. That's a possible difference of five days from one billing period to the next. Also, the billing cycle may include five weekends, a time of increased electrical use for many households.
- Faulty Appliances: A leaky water heater, a well pump that's running constantly, a faulty thermostat, a refrigerator or freezer with a poor door seal, all of these appliance defects can lead to a surprisingly high electricity bill.
- Seasonal Items: Appliances and other equipment used at different times of year (air conditioners, dehumidifiers, hot air furnaces, etc.) can make a significant difference in your electricity usage. And even if these items run on gas or oil, chances are that electricity is still used to circulate the cool/warm air or hot water.
- A Full House: Times of higher occupancy and activity, like holidays and school vacations, can cause your energy use to be higher than normal.
- That Forgotten Item: Did you use an electronic leaf blower, do more computer work and printing than normal, buy a larger refrigerator, a water bed, or a large-screen TV? Any of these things could cause an increase in your electric bill.
- Previous Estimated Bill: There are times when PSNH cannot read or access your electric meter. Sometimes this is due to bad weather, and sometimes it's because we're unable to get to your meter (please call us at 1-800-662-7764 to work out a solution if this is the case). If your past bill or bills have been estimated, your current bill may be adjusted to reflect the actual usage. Examine your previous bills to see if they say "estimated."
- Reading Error: Although our meter readers have a 99.9% accuracy record, there is a chance your current or last reading may have been incorrect. If this is the case, your next bill will be lowered to make up the difference. You can always verify by reading your own meter if you suspect an error.
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