Check the dates on the billing cycle. Occasionally, the billing period will be longer than previous months.

Double check your well pump to ensure it is working properly.

Perform a breaker test – turn all of the breakers in your home off and make sure that the meter has stopped running. If the meter does not stop spinning there is a possibility that you have a problem with the electric service on your side of the meter. If it does stop running, turn one breaker on at a time and check the meter to see how fast it is running. The circuit that makes the meter run the fastest will tell you what is using the most electricity.

Have you added any new appliances to your usage? Engine heaters, heat tape around water pipes, stock tank heaters, portable room heaters, and other similar changes can make a substantial impact on your bill. You may be able to save money by using a timer to control how much some of these devices are on.

Portable room heaters are very expensive to run. Instead of using a room heater, consider covering up with an electric blanket or a warm down or wool blanket while watching television or relaxing. If you must use a portable room heater, be sure you turn it off when you don't need it!

You can find information on conservation and how to calculate an electric appliance's cost to run here.