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8 Things to Know About Your Energy Bill

Do you ever receive your energy bill and find yourself staring at a sea of numbers and terms, feeling utterly confused about what it all means? You’re not alone. Understanding your energy bill is essential for managing your household expenses and becoming more energy-efficient. So, let’s break it down and demystify the complexities of your energy bill.

1. Start with the Basics: Locate crucial information like your account number, billing period, and due date. Ensure these details match your expectations and keep track of your billing cycle.

2. Meter Readings: Pay attention to the current and previous meter readings. The difference between these numbers indicates your energy usage for the billing period. You may start asking yourself, why was your usage higher (or lower) this month than last? What did you do differently? Did the temperature spike up so you used more A/C? Did you have family and friends over to watch the big game? Maybe there were simple changes you could make to get that energy usage to drop like making sure you turn off the lights when you leave the room. We are full of ideas! Verify their accuracy; discrepancies could lead to incorrect charges.

3. Rate and Usage Information: Understand the rate at which you’re charged for electricity (per kWh) and review your total energy consumption (in kWh) during the billing cycle. Monitoring usage trends helps you adjust habits to save energy.

4. Breakdown of Charges: Your bill comprises various charges

  • Basic Service, Transmission, and/or Delivery Charges: The fees and charges for your utility company to bring the supply to you and maintain the connection (Think power lines, poles, pipes). 
  • Energy Supply Charge: The cost of electricity consumed, calculated based on usage. This is where ResCom Energy can help! This charge is for the energy that is brought into your home by the utility. The charge is calculated by taking the kWh you used for the billing period and multiplying it by your rate.
  • Taxes and Fees: Government taxes, regulatory charges, and sometimes service fees.
  • Other Charges: Additional services or penalties incurred during the billing cycle.

5. Total Amount Due: This is the sum of all charges. Pay by the due date to avoid late fees.

6. Payment Information: Find details on accepted payment methods, due date, and where to send your payment. Online portals or mailing addresses are usually provided.

7. Understanding Unusual Charges: If you spot unexpected fees or a significant increase in your bill, contact your utility company for clarification. It could be an error or due to changes in rates or usage.

8. Managing Energy Costs: Use your bill as a tool to monitor usage patterns. Implement energy-saving practices like using energy-efficient appliances, adjusting thermostat settings, and turning off lights when not in use to lower your bill.

Understanding your energy bill empowers you to take control of your energy usage and costs. If you ever find the bill confusing, don’t hesitate to reach out to your utility provider for assistance. You can also sign up for our newsletter HERE for more helpful tips and tricks! With a bit of knowledge and attention, you can navigate your energy bill like a pro, ultimately saving both energy and money!

Why LED Might be Right for Your Home

In the world of lighting, LED bulbs are taking center stage, and for good reason. For homeowners, they are a smart choice that offers a myriad of benefits. Here are some compelling reasons why LED bulbs are a wise investment for anyone looking to illuminate their homes more efficiently and effectively.

EFFICIENCY
LED bulbs are renowned for their remarkable energy efficiency. They consume significantly less electricity compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, translating into lower energy bills. Homeowners can reduce their energy consumption while enjoying the same level of brightness.

LONGEVITY
One of the most attractive features of LED bulbs is their impressive lifespan. These bulbs can last up to 25,000 hours or more, which means you won’t need to replace them as often. This longevity not only saves you money but also reduces the hassle of constantly changing bulbs.

ECO-FRIENDLY
LED bulbs are environmentally friendly. They don’t contain hazardous materials like mercury, which can be found in fluorescent bulbs. LED lighting also produces less heat, reducing your home’s cooling load and contributing to overall energy conservation.

DURABILITY
LED bulbs are built to withstand the test of time and various conditions. They are more rugged and resistant to shock, vibrations, and extreme temperatures. This durability makes them an excellent choice for outdoor lighting, ensuring they can endure the elements.

CONTROL AND DIMMABILITY
Many LED bulbs are dimmable, giving homeowners the flexibility to adjust the lighting intensity to suit their preferences. This control not only enhances the ambiance but also allows for energy savings when full brightness is not required.

LED bulbs are a smart choice for homeowners for numerous reasons. Their energy efficiency, long lifespan, eco-friendliness, durability, instant lighting, design options, and dimmability make them a clear winner in the world of lighting. Investing in LED bulbs not only enhances your home’s illumination but also reduces your carbon footprint and saves you money in the long run. Make the smart choice for your home by switching to LED bulbs today.

Top 3 Energy Saving Home Products to Consider

In an era where energy efficiency and sustainability are becoming increasingly important, there’s a growing market for products designed to help homeowners save on energy consumption and reduce their environmental footprint. These top three energy-saving home products are not only environmentally friendly but also offer long-term savings on your utility bills.

  1. Smart Thermostats: Smart thermostats are a game-changer when it comes to managing your home’s heating and cooling systems efficiently. These devices learn your preferences and adapt to your schedule, automatically adjusting the temperature to conserve energy when you’re away or asleep. They can also be controlled remotely via a smartphone app, allowing you to make real-time adjustments even when you’re not at home.The benefits of a smart thermostat go beyond convenience and energy savings. Some utility companies offer rebates and incentives for installing them, making it a cost-effective choice for homeowners.
  2. LED Lighting: Lighting accounts for a significant portion of a home’s energy consumption. By switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs, you can drastically reduce your electricity usage. LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer, which means fewer replacements and less waste.LED technology has advanced significantly in recent years, offering a wide range of options for different lighting needs. You can find LED bulbs in various color temperatures, dimmable options, and even smart bulbs that you can control with your voice or smartphone.
  3. Energy-Efficient Appliances: When it’s time to replace your appliances, consider investing in energy-efficient models. Appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers with ENERGY STAR certification meet strict energy efficiency standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They use less electricity and water while providing the same or even better performance compared to non-certified counterparts.While the upfront cost of energy-efficient appliances may be slightly higher, the long-term savings in energy bills make them a wise investment. Plus, many states offer incentives and rebates to encourage the purchase of these eco-friendly appliances.

Incorporating these top three energy-saving home products into your household can lead to substantial energy and cost savings over time. Beyond the financial benefits, reducing your energy consumption contributes to a greener, more sustainable future. So, whether you’re looking to upgrade your thermostat, upgrade your lighting, or invest in energy-efficient appliances, taking steps to make your home more energy-efficient is a win-win for your wallet and the environment.

Top 5 Energy-Saving Tips as October Approaches

As the fall air of October rolls in, it’s time to start thinking about energy-saving strategies that could impact the money you spend on your utility bills. Here are five simple tips to keep your energy usage in check:

  1. Seal the Gaps: Inspect your windows and doors for any gaps or cracks that could let in drafts. By weather-stripping and caulking these openings, you’ll prevent chilly air from sneaking into your home and reduce the need for extra heating.
  2. Embrace Natural Light: With the sun’s rays becoming gentler, take advantage of the natural light by keeping your curtains open during the day. This not only brightens your living spaces but also reduces the need for artificial lighting, saving both energy and money.
  3. Program Your Thermostat: Set your thermostat to lower temperatures when you’re asleep or away from home. A programmable thermostat can do this automatically, ensuring you don’t waste energy heating an empty house. Aim for a comfortable yet energy-efficient temperature.
  4. Unplug and Power Down: Many electronics and appliances continue to draw power even when they’re turned off. Unplug chargers, laptops, and other devices when not in use, or use a smart power strip to easily disconnect multiple items at once.
  5. Layer Up: Instead of cranking up the heat, cozy up with warm clothing and blankets. Layering up can keep you comfortable without increasing your energy consumption.

From all of us at ResCom Energy, we wish you a pleasant start to the autumn season!

3 Easy Tips to Conserve Energy this September

With the crisp air of September set to replace the heat of summer in just a couple weeks, now is the perfect time to start planning energy-saving habits that not only benefit your wallet but also contribute to a more sustainable world. Here are three simple yet effective tips to help you conserve energy this September:

  1. Embrace Natural Cooling: With milder temperatures becoming the norm, take advantage of the natural cooling effect by opening windows during the cooler parts of the day. This allows fresh air to circulate through your home, reducing the need for air conditioning. Consider using ceiling fans to enhance air circulation, creating a comfortable indoor environment without relying solely on energy-hungry cooling systems.
  2. Optimize Lighting: As daylight hours start to decrease, make a conscious effort to optimize your lighting usage. Choose energy-efficient LED bulbs, which consume far less energy and have a longer lifespan than traditional incandescent bulbs. Additionally, take advantage of natural light by arranging furniture and workspaces near windows. Remember to turn off lights when not in use and make the most of task lighting to illuminate specific areas only when needed.
  3. Adjust Thermostat Settings: As the temperature drops, adjust your thermostat to a lower setting to reduce heating energy consumption. Consider investing in a programmable thermostat that allows you to set different temperatures for various times of the day. Lowering your thermostat by just a few degrees while you sleep or when you’re away from home can lead to significant energy savings over the course of the month.

By implementing these three energy-saving tips, you’ll not only better manage your energy bills, but also make a positive contribution to the environment. Small changes in your daily routine can have a big impact, helping to conserve energy and reduce your carbon footprint throughout the month of September and beyond. So, open those windows, let in the natural light, and make thoughtful choices about your thermostat settings – your wallet and the planet will thank you!

The ResCom Difference: Unleashing Energy Expertise for Your Benefit

In a world where energy choices abound, ResCom stands out as a leader in delivering quality power service with unfailing integrity. Many companies claim to offer a unique experience, but what truly sets ResCom apart? Let’s delve into the factors that make the ResCom difference and highlight how their expertise in energy can benefit you.

Becoming Energy Experts: At ResCom, they understand that navigating the complexities of the energy landscape can be overwhelming. That’s why they have dedicated themselves to becoming true energy experts, so you don’t have to. Their team diligently stays up to date with market trends, product innovations, and emerging energy sources. By closely monitoring these developments, ResCom ensures that they provide you with the most relevant and valuable insights to optimize your energy consumption and control costs.

Proactive Approach to Market Monitoring: ResCom goes beyond merely being informed about the current state of energy markets. They take a proactive approach by continuously monitoring market conditions and costs on a forward look. This commitment allows them to keep you up to date and informed about what to expect in the energy landscape. By having their finger on the pulse of the industry, ResCom empowers you to make well-informed decisions regarding your energy usage and expenditures.

Uncovering Energy Insights: As climate changes and regional shifts affect energy consumption and costs, understanding your energy bill and the intricacies of the energy system becomes increasingly important. ResCom recognizes this and aims to arm you with the knowledge you need. They provide resources and guidance to help you read your bill, comprehend the energy system, and ultimately develop a customized energy plan that suits your consumption needs and your wallet. ResCom believes that an informed customer is an empowered customer.

Unparalleled Customer Care: ResCom takes customer care seriously, and it starts with being easily accessible. Their 24/7 Call Center ensures that your calls are answered by a real person at any time of the day or night. But their commitment to customer care goes beyond availability. ResCom strives to be the only call you need to make. Once you reach out to them, they take it upon themselves to provide you with all the information you need to make fully informed decisions. Whether you have questions or concerns, ResCom is dedicated to delivering prompt and comprehensive responses.

Upholding Unfailing Integrity: At ResCom, integrity is not just a buzzword; it’s a core value that permeates every aspect of their operations. Their team of highly skilled professionals understands that skill alone rarely wins the day. They work together with a shared commitment to delivering service with the right attitude – one that embodies honesty, straight talk, and timely responses. ResCom believes that their customers deserve nothing short of the truth, every time. They understand that it is the customer who defines their character based on the experiences they have, and ResCom is dedicated to exceeding expectations, not just once, but every time.

In a competitive energy landscape, ResCom truly stands out by unleashing their energy expertise for your benefit. Their commitment to becoming energy experts, proactive market monitoring, uncovering energy insights, unparalleled customer care, and unwavering integrity sets them apart from the rest. When you choose ResCom, you choose a partner who will go above and beyond to ensure your energy needs are met with excellence. Experience the ResCom difference and discover the power of having an energy expert on your side.

Empowering Consumers: ResCom’s Mission to Educate and Inform

In a rapidly changing energy landscape, knowledge is power. ResCom understands the importance of empowering consumers with information to make informed decisions about their energy consumption. This article explores ResCom’s mission to educate and inform consumers, helping them navigate the complexities of the energy industry.

Understanding Energy Consumption: ResCom recognizes that energy consumption patterns vary based on climate changes and regional shifts. In this section, we delve into ResCom’s efforts to educate consumers on the factors influencing their energy usage. From explaining the impact of weather conditions to highlighting the benefits of energy-efficient practices, ResCom equips consumers with the knowledge to make informed choices.

Demystifying Energy Bills: Energy bills can be daunting, filled with technical terms and complex pricing structures. ResCom strives to demystify energy bills, enabling consumers to understand the breakdown of costs and identify areas for potential savings. We explore ResCom’s resources and tools designed to help consumers read and interpret their bills, providing transparency and clarity.

Navigating the Energy System: The energy system can be intricate, with multiple stakeholders and regulations. ResCom aims to simplify this complexity and help consumers navigate the energy system. This section discusses ResCom’s educational initiatives, such as informative guides and articles, that break down the components of the energy system. By understanding how the system operates, consumers can actively participate and make choices aligned with their needs.

Customized Energy Plans: ResCom believes in the power of tailored solutions. This section highlights how ResCom assists consumers in developing personalized energy plans. By analyzing consumption patterns, offering energy audits, and recommending energy-efficient products, ResCom empowers consumers to optimize their energy usage and reduce costs. We delve into the process of creating customized plans that align with individual consumption patterns and financial goals.

Keeping Consumers Informed: Staying informed about energy market trends and emerging technologies is crucial for consumers to make informed decisions. ResCom is committed to keeping consumers up to date through regular communications, newsletters, and market reports. This section explores how ResCom provides valuable insights into market conditions, pricing trends, and emerging energy solutions, allowing consumers to stay ahead of the curve.

Building Consumer Confidence: ResCom understands that informed consumers are confident consumers. By providing comprehensive information, educational resources, and responsive customer support, ResCom builds consumer confidence. This section discusses ResCom’s commitment to prompt and transparent communication, ensuring consumers feel supported and empowered throughout their energy journey.

ResCom’s mission to educate and inform consumers sets them apart as a customer-centric energy provider. By empowering consumers with knowledge about their energy consumption, bills, and the energy system, ResCom enables them to make informed decisions and achieve greater control over their energy usage and costs. Experience the power of being an informed consumer with ResCom.

ResCom’s 24/7 Customer Care: Your Trusted Support System

ResCom believes that exceptional customer care is the foundation of its commitment to its customers. This article delves into ResCom’s unwavering dedication to providing round-the-clock customer care, ensuring that customers always have a trusted support system at their disposal.

The Importance of Accessible Customer Care: ResCom understands that energy-related questions and concerns can arise at any time. This section highlights the significance of having a 24/7 customer care service. ResCom’s commitment to accessibility means that customers can reach out for assistance, information, or resolution whenever they need it, day or night.

Speaking to Real People: While automated systems have become prevalent in customer service, ResCom takes a different approach. We explore ResCom’s commitment to having calls answered by real people rather than recorded messages or chatbots. This human touch ensures that customers receive personalized attention and have their concerns addressed by a knowledgeable representative.

Making ResCom the Only Call You Need to Make: ResCom believes in simplifying the customer experience. This section highlights ResCom’s dedication to being a one-stop solution for customers’ energy-related needs. From general inquiries to billing concerns and technical issues, ResCom aims to handle all customer requests efficiently, saving customers the hassle of making multiple calls to different departments.

Timely and Comprehensive Responses: Promptness is a key aspect of ResCom’s customer care philosophy. We discuss ResCom’s commitment to timely responses, ensuring that customers receive the information they need without unnecessary delays. ResCom’s customer care representatives are trained to provide comprehensive answers and solutions, giving customers the confidence that their concerns are being addressed in a thorough manner.

ResCom’s Support for Customer Decision-Making: ResCom understands that informed decision-making is vital for customers. This section explores how ResCom’s customer care team goes beyond addressing immediate concerns and strives to support customers in making fully informed decisions. Whether it’s explaining the details of different energy plans or providing insights into energy-saving strategies, ResCom’s customer care representatives act as trusted advisors.

Feedback and Continuous Improvement: ResCom values customer feedback as a means of improving their services. This section highlights how ResCom actively seeks customer input, listens to suggestions, and implements changes based on customer feedback. ResCom’s commitment to continuous improvement ensures that the customer care experience evolves to meet the evolving needs and expectations of customers.

ResCom’s 24/7 customer care service serves as a dependable support system for customers, providing access to knowledgeable representatives whenever assistance is needed. By prioritizing personalized interactions, timely responses, and comprehensive support, ResCom ensures that customers feel valued and supported throughout their energy journey. Trust ResCom as your energy partner, knowing that reliable customer care is just a call away.

Understanding Retail Energy: Your Guide to Choosing the Right Energy Supplier

In deregulated energy markets, consumers hold the power to select their energy supplier, offering them the freedom to find the right provider to meet their unique needs. This guide aims to provide valuable insights into understanding retail energy and offers a step-by-step approach to selecting the ideal energy supplier.

What is Retail Energy? This section provides an overview of retail energy and highlights the distinction between retail and regulated energy models. It explains how retail energy empowers consumers to choose their supplier while clarifying that the infrastructure for energy transmission and distribution remains regulated.

The Benefits of Retail Energy: Exploring the advantages of retail energy, this section discusses the increased competition among suppliers, leading to benefits such as lower prices, improved customer service, and a wider range of options. Additionally, it emphasizes how retail energy drives innovation, energy efficiency, and renewable energy initiatives.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Energy Supplier: Choosing the right energy supplier is essential to cater to individual needs. This section outlines key factors to consider, including pricing structures, contract terms, customer service, renewable energy options, additional services, and reputation. By evaluating these factors, consumers can make an informed decision aligned with their priorities.

Researching Energy Suppliers: Thorough research plays a crucial role in selecting the right energy supplier. This section provides guidance on researching energy suppliers, utilizing online resources, customer reviews, and comparison websites. It emphasizes the importance of understanding offerings, pricing plans, customer feedback, and unique features that differentiate suppliers.

Evaluating Pricing Structures: Pricing is a critical aspect when choosing an energy supplier. This section delves into the various pricing structures used by suppliers, such as fixed-rate, variable-rate, and indexed plans. It explains the advantages and potential risks associated with each structure, aiding consumers in selecting the option that best fits their budget and risk tolerance.

Renewable Energy Options: For consumers interested in supporting renewable energy, this section explores the renewable energy options offered by suppliers. It highlights the availability of green energy plans, renewable energy certificates, and stresses the importance of verifying the source and credibility of renewable energy claims. Consumers can align their sustainability goals with suppliers offering suitable renewable energy options.

Making the Switch: This final section provides practical guidance on switching to a new energy supplier. It outlines the necessary steps, including contacting the new supplier, understanding early termination fees, reviewing the new contract, and coordinating the transition with the current utility company. By following these steps, consumers can seamlessly switch to their chosen energy supplier.

Understanding retail energy and the ability to choose an energy supplier empowers consumers in deregulated energy markets. By considering factors such as pricing, contract terms, customer service, renewable energy options, and conducting thorough research, consumers can make an informed decision.

The Power of Choice: How Deregulation Empowers Energy Consumers

Deregulation has brought about a significant transformation in the energy industry, providing consumers with the power to choose their energy supplier. This article explores the remarkable benefits of deregulation and how it has revolutionized the energy landscape, placing power into the hands of energy consumers.

The Transformation of the Energy Industry: In the face of historical energy monopolies, deregulation has brought forth a remarkable shift towards a competitive energy market. This section delves into the evolution of the energy industry, highlighting the transition from a monopolistic model to a landscape that encourages consumer choice and fosters market innovation.

Enhanced Competition and Lower Prices: Through deregulation, increased competition among energy suppliers has become a driving force behind lower prices for consumers. This section examines how heightened competition benefits energy consumers, offering them a range of pricing options and incentives. By promoting cost-efficiency and a customer-centric approach, deregulation has led to more competitive pricing and enhanced value for consumers.

Customization and Tailored Solutions: One of the key advantages of deregulation lies in the power of choice, enabling consumers to customize their energy solutions. This section explores how consumers can select energy suppliers that align with their specific needs, preferences, and values. From renewable energy options to innovative services and tailored pricing structures, consumers have the ability to shape their energy plans according to their individual requirements.

Improved Customer Service and Satisfaction: Deregulation has elevated customer service and satisfaction as top priorities for energy suppliers. In this section, we delve into how competition compels suppliers to prioritize customer experiences, offering prompt issue resolution, personalized support, and enhanced service quality. Consumers now have the assurance of receiving superior customer care in a market driven by their needs and expectations.

Supporting Renewable Energy and Sustainability: Deregulation empowers consumers to make environmentally conscious choices by supporting renewable energy sources. This section explores how consumers can choose energy suppliers that prioritize clean energy, providing renewable energy options and programs. By embracing renewable energy, consumers can actively contribute to a more sustainable future and support the growth of clean energy initiatives.

Innovation and Technological Advancements: Deregulated markets foster innovation and technological advancements within the energy industry. This section highlights how competition drives suppliers to invest in research and development, resulting in the introduction of cutting-edge technologies and energy solutions. Consumers reap the benefits of these advancements, gaining access to state-of-the-art energy management tools, smart home technologies, and energy efficiency programs.

Empowering Energy Consumers: The final section emphasizes the profound power and numerous benefits that deregulation grants to energy consumers. From competitive pricing and customization to improved customer service, renewable energy options, and innovative technologies, the power of choice lies at the heart of this transformation. Embracing this power allows energy consumers to shape their energy future and experience a more consumer-centric energy landscape.

Deregulation has brought a wave of transformation to the energy industry, granting consumers the power to choose their energy supplier. Through the power of choice, consumers now enjoy enhanced competition, lower prices, customized solutions, improved customer service, support for renewable energy, and access to cutting-edge technologies. It’s time to embrace the power of choice and take control of your energy future in the deregulated energy market.