According to WLFI-TV meteorologist Cameron Hopman, the cold snap we faced between December 26, 2017 and January 6, 2018 was the longest streak of sub-twenty degree temperatures in our area’s history. The unprecedented streak of cold weather resulted in very high energy use.
We’ve spoken recently with many Tipmont members who have received higher than expected bills following the cold weather. We understand that this is a difficult situation. We’re asking any members with concerns to contact us to discuss ways we can help you.
If you have questions or need assistance with your energy bill, please call Member Service at (800) 726-3953 during our normal business hours of 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. or email memberservice@tipmont.org. Additional information and resources on energy assistance and energy efficiency are available on our website.
TIPMONT’S MISSION
Tipmont REMC is a not-for-profit electric cooperative that sells energy at cost. We exist solely to serve you and to deliver value to the communities we serve. We need to hear from you, especially if you have concerns. Please call or email our team in Linden, IN today.
WHY ENERGY BILLS ARE HIGH
As mentioned previously, the streak of sub-twenty degree temperatures December 26, 2017 and January 6, 2018 was the longest in our area’s history. Further, the cold snap occurred during the holidays when many members were at home, using appliances and other energy-consuming devices.
Weather affects your energy bill more than any other factor. The chart to the right shows how heating your home, including water heating, are responsible for nearly half of your energy use at home.
The abnormally cold weather increases the amount of energy you use. Whether your home is heated with electric or gas, your energy consumption is affected most by the outside temperature.
You’ll notice on the chart that cooling is only 6% of average home energy use, while heating is 42%. The reason is the temperature difference inside and outside your home is greater in winter than in summer. The greater the temperature difference, the more your heating system has to run to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
For example, if you want your house to be 70 degrees inside and its 20 degrees outside, your HVAC system has to make up 50 degrees difference in temperature. Even on a 100 degree summer day, the HVAC system only has to make up about 30 degrees difference versus that 50-degree variance in winter.
PLEASE CONTACT US
The lengthy cold streak has resulted in high energy usage and high bills. If you have questions or need assistance, we can help, but only if you contact us. Our Member Service team can be reached at (800) 726-3953 during our normal business hours of 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Or, you may also contact us by emailing memberservice@tipmont.org.
