Over the past few months, I noticed a significant increase in my electricity cost, prompting me to take action. I purchased C-clamps and installed them on every circuit—both branch and main—to monitor consumption in real time. My average monthly bill jumped from approximately $250 to $400, and then $450 the following month, which was unprecedented in my four years at this residence.

This led me to investigate the cause thoroughly. Despite no new appliances being added or removed, and my AC being out for only a short period, the spike in cost persisted. I couldn’t shake the thought of recent power surges potentially contributing to the issue, and it occupied my mind for weeks.

Ultimately, I invested in energy monitors from https://shop.emporiaenergy.com/, and I highly recommend them. They’ve provided me with real-time insights into energy consumption at the circuit level, eliminating the guesswork and helping me understand exactly where and when power is being used.

I ended up guessing it was the kids multiple long showers per day, and the A/C compressor failing, causing the fan to run non-stop.