Apples and Oranges

So, let's talk high bills. Some of the main reasons this winter are TVA's 9.1 rate increase, the more than 20 percent fuel cost adjustment, extra long billing cycles, and the extra cold weather.

For example, my last bill was for a 34 day billing period, compared to 30 for last month. Also looking at my bill, I can see that this time last year the average temperature was 45, rather than 43.

What I can't figure out is how I managed to use 885 more kW. Time to check my thermostat settings, cut down on the hot showers and baths, and change the filter!

Now, having said this, when I talk to other people about their bills, there's something else that seems to get lost in the mix. There's a lot more to your utility bill than just light, gas, and water.

Looking over my own bill, there are the following charges:

Gas
Electric
Water
Green Power Switch (this is optional)
City of Memphis Sewer Charge
Shelby County Mosquito/Rodent Control Fee
City of Memphis Storm Water Fee

I think a lot people forget just how many things they are paying for when they pay their MLGW bill.

Some people are also charged fees for fire service, depending on where they live. If you don't pay your bill in full, you may have carry over charges and/or late charges. If you bounce a check, there could be a charge for non-sufficient funds. If you've recently moved there could be a connection fee. Also, if you've been cut-off recently, there might be a reconnection fee plus an additional deposit charge.

So, my advice? Look closely at your individual charges, look at how long the billing period was, compare the temperature to last year's, and think about some changes that you could make that would translate into savings on your bill. See more tips here.

Also when talking to people who live outside of the MLGW service area, find out exactly what they are being billed for. There are a lot of cities that have separate providers for electricity, gas, and water.

Photo courtesy of Flickr