The Anti grid

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  • Beware of solar panel scams

    Beware of solar panel scams

    The initial contact

    Recently A friend of mine was targeted by scammers. These scammers came to the door and claimed there was a government backed program and my friend would be able to get solar panels on his roof at no cost.

    Something doesn’t add up

    The scammer claimed that they were from the electric company and that they had been sent by the electric company to sign people up for this program.

    The high pressure sales tactic

    The scammer claimed that electric bills would only get higher and higher.

    That much is true, but the tactic is one of many hallmarks of a scam. The scammer was persistent which, most sales people are but think about this, why in the world would the electric company send someone door to door to sign their customers up for a program that literally takes money out of their pocket?

    The scam begins to fail

    They offered to warranty the roof for 25 years but that isn’t possible as only the roofing company can do that!

    Offering to warranty your roof for 25 years means they know you’re starting to figure out that they are scamming you and they are trying to shift your focus with claims that sound way too good to be true.

    Trust your instincts

    When your gut says something isn’t right, listen to it. If you think someone is trying to scam you then you’re probably right.

    A quick google search

    A quick google search revealed that there was no government backed program funding solar panels. It also gives examples of the high pressure sales tactics used by scammers. Keep in mind that those are only examples and that they are not the only tactics or verbiage that can be or are used in scams. Do not sign up for any “government backed program” with out first doing your due diligence and google searching the program.

    Ask what the program is called. Every government program has some sort of identifier, food stamps are known as : EBT, food assistance, food stamps, Snap benefits, This is just an example.

    It would make sense that a government backed solar panel program would have a name. If they can’t give you a name for it, or they appear to be trying to come up with one on the spot that’s a huge red flag. Google any name they give you, google to find out if any such program exists by that name or any other.

    If the person you are speaking to gives you the wrong program name, do not sign up. If a program of that nature exists and you are interested try directly contacting some of the companies found with your google search. If a person contacts you and gives the wrong program name or doesn’t know the program name that is a huge red flag.

    If someone contacts you by phone, or in person and you recognize any of the above tactics, excuse your self for a moment if in person, go inside, and quietly call the police and inform them you have a person at your house that is attempting to scam you and follow what ever instructions they give you.

    Final thoughts

    If it sounds too good to be true, It usually is. Trust your instincts. If you think someone is trying to scam you, they probably are. Trusting your instincts, and a quick google search could help protect you from falling victim to a scam.

  • Rate hikes strike again!

    Rate hikes strike again!

    I wrote in a previous blog post that electricity rates were going to increase. They have definitely increased and according to a recent news story, they will increase again

    What happens now?

    Your bill will be higher for the same usage. if you normally use 250 KWh per month and your bill is say 75.00 expect your bill to be 130.00-160.00 for the same 250KWh. These are not real numbers it’s just an example. The point is you are going to see a noticeable increase in your electric bill.

    How can you fight back?

    Solar powered generators are a good option to fight the rising cost of utility bills. I’ve mentioned this before in previous posts about saving on your electric bill, but you can plug all of your electronic devices in to solar powered generators and power banks. These do not have the ongoing cost of fuel as they can be charged for free in the sun and alternatively they can be charged in your car. They can also be wall charged but that just adds to your electric bill, instead try using one generator to charge another.

    Can I eliminate my electric bill entirely?

    In theory the answer is yes. If your electricity gets disconnected you can still produce and use your own electricity for free with solar powered generators and power banks. The electric company can not charge you for off grid power consumption. They can not charge you for anything during the time your power is disconnected. In theory, yes you can eliminate your electric bill entirely with some simple changes.

    How can I eliminate my electric bill entirely?

    If you have already purchased solar powered generators/portable power banks, you can turn off all the breakers in your house which effectively stops electricity from being delivered to your home room by room. Plug lamps, TVs, Internet modems and if you have them cable boxes into your generators. If your generator is powerful enough you can plug your refrigerator into a generator.

    You will need powerful solar powered generators to run your Refrigerator, washer and dryer and your stove. A less powerful generator can run your microwave. You can avoid using your stove by purchasing an electric cook top and plugging it into a solar powered generator.

    How long do these generators last?

    Most generators will last a few hours before needing recharged. The higher the draw on the generator is the more frequently it will need to be charged.

    If the draw on the generator is too high they will shut off. This prevents power surges that can damage your generators and shorten their life span.

    The life of a generator depends on the quality of the generator, and frequency of use. I only recommend the ones that last for several years even with every day use.

    How often do you want to pay?

    Would you rather pay the increasing monthly electric bills or would you rather purchase new generators every 10-15 years and some smaller ones every 5 years?

    A 250.00 solar powered generator will pay for itself in just a few months. A 1,000.00 generator will pay for itself in 1-2 years and last up to 15 years even with daily use and depending on the wattage could last 6-8 hours depending on the draw on the generator.

    Personal experience

    I have 2 smaller generators currently and a rechargeable LED lantern. I have had the generators for nearly 2 years and they are still going strong. I bought my rechargeable LED lantern in December of 2024 and as of today 7/23/2025 it’s still going strong and still super bright.

    A few notes on the Rechargeable LED Lantern

    I noticed it does drain fairly quickly. As the battery discharges it gets dimmer and dimmer until recharged. It can be charged while being used but if it is less than 75% charged it will continue to discharge at a slightly reduced rate. If it is 75% charged it will continue to charge and may still discharge some but at a bit of a slower rate. I tested this just last night so I am speaking from experience on that one. Keep in mind that not all LED lanterns can be used while charging.

    Rechargeable flashlights are a great option too, they can provide plenty of light in one room and being rechargeable means no need to buy expensive batteries, no need to flip that switch on the wall which won’t work if the breakers are turned off! You won’t need to use the light function on your generators which will drain it faster if it’s already powering appliances or devices.

    The conclusion

    If you have enough generators with enough power you can completely eliminate your electric bill by turning off all breakers and plugging all of your appliances and devices into your generators. There’s no real reason to continue throwing away more and more money month after month when you can cut your bill out entirely and keep that cash in your pocket where it belongs. That means more money for other things.

    Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

  • Breathing Easy: The Hidden danger of Power Outages for people with Respiratory Issues

    Breathing Easy: The Hidden danger of Power Outages for people with Respiratory Issues

    For most people a power outage is an inconvenience. For those with breathing problems – such as COPD, Asthma, or Sleep apnea- it can have deadly consequences. When the power goes out medical equipment such as Oxygen concentrators, nebulizers, and CPAP machines stop working. If you or a household member use one or more of these machines, Preparing for a black out isn’t optional, it’s necessary.

    In this post I’ll break down the real risks of losing electricity when you have respiratory problems- and how to protect yourself. I’ve also included links to emergency power options and devices that can make all the difference.

    Why Power Outages Are So Dangerous for People With Breathing Problems

    1. Interrupted oxygen supply Many people with chronic respiratory issues depend on oxygen concentrators or tanks. Electric concentrators stop working during a power outage which can cause: Breathlessness, panic, or even respiratory failure.
    2. Nebulizers and CPAP machines stop working Conditions like asthma or sleep apnea often require electric powered devices. without power the symptoms can worsen quickly.
    3. extreme weather adds pressure power outages are often caused by storms and heat waves, which can make respiratory symptoms worse due to humidity and poor air quality.
    4. Air purifiers stop working Air purifiers that help reduce allergens and impurities stop working if they rely on electricity and that worsen asthma and COPD symptoms very quickly.

    Must Have Gear to Stay Safe During A Blackout

    1. A portable oxygen concentrator with battery backup ensures continuous oxygen delivery, even when the lights go out.

    check out this highly rated portable concentrator on amazon

    2. CPAP Battery backup or portable power station

    If you use a CPAP machine a battery backup is a must.

    click here for my recommended CPAP compatible portable power station

    For a stronger, CPAP compatible portable power station with longer battery life click here Please note this is only my second choice due to expense.

    Home backup Battery Generator (No Gas Needed)

    Gasless, Solar-compatible battery generators are perfect for apartments or homes where traditional generators aren’t an option.

    Explore silent home backup power units here

    4.Medical Alert systems and power outage monitors

    Modern medical alert systems can notify caregivers if the power goes out, vital when seconds count.

    power outage detection system

    medical alert systems with fall detection

    Prepare for emergencies what to keep in your emergency breathing kit

    • Fully charged battery powered devices
    • Extra medicine (inhalers, steroids, etc.)
    • a solar powered charger, or hand crank power bank
    • manual resuscitator kit(ambu bag) if advised by your doctor.

    Recommended products:

    • Emergency Resuscitator kit for CPR – includes items to help reduce the risk of cross -contamination and transference of viruses and bacteria between the victim and rescuer
    • AED response kit provides essential equipment and supplies for treatment of acute airway, breathing, circulation emergencies

    Final thoughts: Prepare Before the power goes out.

    If you or a family member has breathing problems, don’t wait until the next storm or grid failure to start preparing.

    Preparing now ahead of time can mean the difference between discomfort and a life threatening medical emergency or potential death.

    Invest in battery backups, have and know your emergency plan, and share it with someone who might need it, such as another care giver.

    Stay safe. Stay breathing. Stay prepared.

    Disclosure: this post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the blog and keeps content like this coming. Thanks for your support!

  • The Top 5 Light Sources to Keep in Your Home During a Power Outage (That Actually Work)

    August 6th 2024 there was a tornado outbreak in Cleveland Ohio. The one that affected a good friend of mine was an EF1. It took out power. My friend was without power for 5 days. All of his food spoiled. He was completely unprepared with the exception of 1 battery powered lantern that allowed him to charge his phone and see where he was going.

    Here are the products he wished he had:

    With these products he would have been almost been unaffected. The only effect would have been getting these items out and plugging things in.

    Why I recommend these products:

    I recommend the solar powered lantern because they are designed to light rooms in power outages, you won’t need to buy expensive batteries, and brightness is often adjustable.

    I recommend the E-SHIDAI solar flashlight for it’s brightness and versatility, 2 charging options, light weight design, phone charging ability, and charging indicator.

    I recommend the EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA2 with 220W Solar Panel, LFP(LiFePO4) Battery for it’s fast charge time, it boasts an 1800 watt AC output which is enough to power a refrigerator (no more spoiled food!), 15 outlets!

    I recommend the Anker SOLIX C1000 Portable Power Station for it’s super fast charge time, it will fully charge in just 58 minutes with wall charging. with a 600 watt solar panel it will charge in 1.8 hours. It boasts an 1800 watt output, 11 versatile ports can power 99% of appliances or devices. This one can power your TV, a household lamp, your internet modem, charge your phone, laptop, tablet and iPad.

    I recommend the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station,1070Wh LiFePO4 Battery for it’s compact design, 1500 watt output, It boasts that it can power an AC unit keeping you cool and comfortable, strong enough to power a household vacuum allowing you to keep allergens and sneezing away. it’s light weight at just 23.8lbs making it portable, it can be moved from room to room as needed.

    Final thoughts

    The power grid is notoriously unreliable make sure you’re not caught off guard.

    It only takes one long night in the dark to realize how important light is for safety and comfort. The above options are are affordable, reliable, and easy to store-so you’re ready when the lights go out.

    Pro tip: stock extras and rotate rechargeable ones to make sure they’re always ready.

    .

    This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work!

  • Alternative Light sources

    Alternative Light sources

    Bright Ideas Beyond the Grid

    Every time you flip that light switch, The electric company makes money. In a previous post, I talked about The Rising Cost of Electricity: How to Lower Your Bill and Take Back Control – and that trend doesn’t seem likely to change any time soon.

    You CAN take control of your lighting costs. Whether you want to power your lamps using a generator or explore off-grid solutions, there are plenty of alternative light sources that don’t depend on traditional electricity.

    Why Consider Alternative Light sources?

    Plugging your regular household lamps into a generator works great – until you need that outlet for something else. That’s when having a backup or off-grid light source becomes essential.

    Popular off-grid lighting options

    There are a variety of lighting options that don’t rely on wall power:

    • Solar powered lamps and lanterns
    • Battery-powered lamps and lanterns
    • puck lights
    • Light bars
    • solar and rechargeable flash lights
    • Rechargeable lanterns

    Each has it’s strengths, depending on your needs.

    Understanding Lumens:

    How bright is bright enough?

    One key factor to consider is lumens, which measure light output (or brightness). The brighter the light you need, the higher the lumens you’ll want. Whether you’re lighting a whole room or just trying to avoid stepping on toys or your home becoming an obstacle course in the dark, lumens matter.

    Light source pros and cons:

    Household lamps + generators

    great when you have a generator with enough outlets to spare – but not ideal when generator supplied outlets are in short supply.

    Puck lights

    These small, battery-operated lights can stick to the wall without damage. While usually dim, they’re perfect for lighting small areas -like hallways or kids’ rooms -to prevent stubbing toes or stepping on Legos.

    Battery-powered Lanterns

    Bright and effective, depending on the model and it’s lumen output. However, they require C or D batteries, which add to long term costs.

    Solar-powered Lanterns

    2,000 lumen solar rechargeable lantern

    Eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run, these don’t require batteries. A great option for anyone wanting to avoid frequent battery purchases.

    Rechargeable Lanterns

    3,200 lumen usb rechargeable lantern

    These are versatile and usually powered via USB. They can be charged using a power bank, small generator, or even in your car-just like a phone. This set up avoids relying on the electric grid and saves you money over time.

    Flashlights That Do More

    Solar-powered flashlights with varying lumen levels are perfect for:

    • Finding lost items under the couch
    • Staying visible when walking your dog at night
    • Lighting your path when crossing a dark room

    Many of these flashlights can also double as lanterns, making them especially handy in emergencies or power outages.

    Final thoughts

    Investing in alternative light sources gives you flexibility, saves money, and adds peace of mind. Whether you’re prepping for emergencies, going off-grid, or just trying to lower your electric bill, there’s a light solution that fits your needs.

    Dare to ditch the switch

    Tired of paying the electric company every time you flip a switch? Dare to try something new. Test out a solar lantern. Swap a puck light into your hallway. Power a flashlight with the sun. Take one small step toward energy independence- and prove that you don’t have to rely on grid power to keep your life lit.

    Try it this week. Light one room, one walk, or one evening without using traditional power. Then tell me how it went. Let’s challenge ourselves -and each other -to make smarter, more sustainable lighting choices.

    I slashed my electric bill by 75.00 a month just by using solar powered lanterns for lighting, turning off breakers to unused rooms, unplugging vampire appliances and powering TVs and other small electronics with solar powered generators for just a few hours per day.

    The future is bright. Make sure it’s yours.

    this post contains affiliate links. If you buy through these links, I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

  • Are Generac Generators Really Worth It?

    Are Generac Generators Really Worth It?

    A cost-conscious perspective

    As someone without personal experience using Generac generators, I wanted to understand whether they are truly a cost- effective alternative to grid power. After doing some research and checking out available models, I found some key considerations worth sharing.

    What Are Generac Generators?

    Generac offers several models, the majority of which are designed solely for standby power in the event of a power outage. To use them with an off-grid system, a transfer switch is required to disconnect from grid power and shift to solar or generator-supplied power.

    These generators come pre-configured to run on natural gas, but during installation, they can also be re-configured to run on liquid propane. Units can be purchased on websites like Amazon and Generac.com, among others.

    Cost and practicality

    From my perspective, Generac generators are not particularly cost-effective. The generators themselves and the required transfer switches are quite expensive. Add to that the cost of fuel, and the over all expense quickly outweighs the value. Over time, they cost more to run than they are actually worth.

    There are other, far more cost-effective solutions available. Personally, I would rather spend $2,800 and run my home with no additional cost than spend upwards of $7,000 on a generator, plus the ongoing fuel and maintenance costs.

    Final thoughts

    I reached this conclusion based on information from from various sources, including google searches intended to help determine cost-effective solutions for off-grid living. Generac generators are not intended to serve as a primary power source, and running them full time can can become quite costly.

    In my opinion, Generac generators do not deliver meaningful savings over time. They offer no real long-term benefit and are best viewed as a convenience for those who can afford the added expense but if you still feel this is the best option for you click here to see available options.

    generac generator for home backup

    There’s more

    Looking for a smarter, more affordable energy solution?

    Follow my blog for practical reviews, energy saving tips, and alternatives to high-cost systems.

    Already using a generator? Share your experience in the comments below!

    this post contains affiliate links. If you buy through these links, I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

  • The Rising Cost of Electricity: How to Lower Your Bill and Take Back Control

    The Rising Cost of Electricity: How to Lower Your Bill and Take Back Control

    It’s no secret that the cost of electricity has steadily increased over the years. In 1965, the average cost per kilowatt-hour was just 2.5 cents, and the typical monthly electric bill hovered around $25-$30.

    Today, we’re paying 7-18 cents per kilowatt-hour, with monthly bills commonly reaching $120 to $160 or more. That’s over three times the cost from just a few decades ago.

    Meanwhile, electric companies continue to report record profits. Is that fair to consumers who have no say in the rates we’re forced to pay?

    The Hidden Cost of Vampire Appliances

    “Vampire appliances” are devices that quietly suck energy even when turned off. These include:

    • Microwaves with digital clocks
    • Coffee makers with always-on displays
    • TVs that stay in standby mode
    • Game consoles and smart home devices

    the below solar powered generator can power these devices.

    These hidden drains on your power can add up quickly. A good first step is unplugging them when not in use or using smart plugs and power strips to control their power flow.

    Flip the Breakers, Slash the Bill

    Here’s a bold, often overlooked strategy: turn off circuit breakers to unused rooms or areas when you’re not home. This can help eliminate standby power usage entirely.

    The less power you let flow unnecessarily, the more money stays in your wallet.

    Solar Generators: A smarter investment

    If you’re tired of monthly bills climbing higher, solar-powered generators and power banks offer a powerful alternative.

    • Average yearly electric bill: $140/month x 12=1,680
    • mid-range solar generator set up: $1,200-$1,600
    • payback period 12-18 months.
    • Higher-end systems pay for themselves in 3-4 years

    Plus, they add energy security during blackouts and outages-something utility companies can’t guarantee.

    Take Back Your Power

    The choice is clear: Keep paying increasing rates, or make a one time investment in energy independence.

    Why pay $120+ every month when you can pay $15-$20/month or less using smart strategies and solar solutions?

    Make the Switch Today

    don’t let the utility companies bleed you dry. It’s time to fight back.

    Start by identifying vampire appliances, flipping your breakers, and investing in a solar generator or power bank that fits your budget.

    Take control of your energy. Take control of your money.

    Follow my blog for:

    • energy saving tips to lower your electric bill
    • Reviews of affordable solar power solutions
    • Recommended solar solutions as I try them myself
    • Alternative lighting solutions

    this post contains affiliate links. If you buy through these links, I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

  • affordable alternatives choosing the one that’s right for you

          In this post I will teach you about portable power banks (also known as portable power stations) and choosing the one that will best suit your needs.

    Light usage

      Some people may only want one for light usage, maybe to power a cell phone or a lamp for a couple of hours per day just to see if it makes a difference in their bill. Maybe you want to power devices during a power outage. Light users will be fine with a portable power station with an output of 600 watts. If you want to power more devices in different rooms, you will need one for each room you wish to power devices in unless you want to move a single portable power station from room to room. 120 watt portable power bank will power your cell phone for a couple of days before needing recharged. These portable power banks and power stations can be recharged in your car with a car charger or via solar panel in the sunlight. They can also be wall charged but that puts money into the electric company’s pocket.

    Moderate usage

    Moderate users can get away with a 768 watt hour or 800 watt output power station can power your phone, laptop, a small lamp and your TV for about 3-4 hours before it needs to be recharged. They can usually be recharged in a couple of hours either in your car with a car charger or in the sunlight with a solar panel. You can also recharge by wall charger but again this charging option will put money in the electric company’s pocket. If you do not want to wait while the power station recharges then you will need at least two so you have a source of power while the other one is being charged.

    Mildly heavy usage

    mildly heavy users will want something with 1,070 watt hours, 1500 watt output. You can safely run a microwave on this. When you’re not powering your microwave you can power your vacuum cleaner long enough to get the job done. If you’re not vacuuming, you can power your TV, internet modem, a lamp, and your cell phone for a few hours. They are rechargeable by car charger in your car, solar panel, or wall charging. Wall charging always puts money back in the electric company’s pocket. I recommend getting at least two of them so you can have a back up while one is charging.

    Heavy usage

    Heavy users will want 2,048 watt hours or 2400 watt output. This one can power your microwave or vacuum cleaner a few times, it will power your TV, internet modem, a lamp, your laptop, and your cell phone, tablet, and gaming console for up to 5.5 hours before needing charged. The more devices you power at once is the faster you will need to recharge. You can recharge by car charger or solar panel in the sun and as always wall charging is an option but it puts money back into the electric company’s pocket.

    Extra heavy usage

    Extra heavy users want 3600 watt hours 3600 watt output. This can power a washer or dryer but running both simultaneously is not recommended unless you purchase the expandable battery and the double voltage hub each of which are sold separately. This can also run your full refrigerator for approximately 24 hours unexpanded and with out the double voltage hub. I strongly recommend purchasing two of these so you still have power when the other one needs to be recharged.

    Super heavy usage

    Super heavy users will want 4,096 watt hours 4,000 watt output. This can power all of your devices or be used as backup power for the whole home. You can also expand the battery and get the double voltage hub. Once again the expansion battery and double voltage hub are sold separately. This should meet even the highest demand. Charging options include car charging, solar panel in the sunlight, and wall charging but again if you choose to wall charge it puts money back into the electric company’s pocket. 

    Full time users

    Full time users will want something with 3,840 watthour 6000 watt output. This can power your whole home or individual rooms. The more individual rooms you power is the more of these you will need but the lower the draw on each generator or power station as they are often referred to is the longer they can go without needing to be recharged. This generator is expandable to 12000 watts. Now that’s a lot of power! They are portable and can be moved from room to room as needed.

    They can power your washer and dryer simultaneously without over loading the generator. You can no doubt power your TV, internet modem, lamps, cell phones, tablets, and gaming consoles for quite a while before needing to be recharged. You can charge by car charger in your car, solar panel (1200 watt) or wall charge it. Keep in mind that wall charging will always put money back in the electric company’s pocket.

    The last two above mentioned options can take you at least 90 to 99% off grid power and you will have almost no electric bill at all. If you want to go 100% off grid power you will need to trip all your breakers or remove all fuses. The easiest option is to just call the utility company and request to have the service shut off. The last two mentioned options can power either your full size stove even if it’s a gas stove. All stoves require at least some electricity as even gas stoves often have a digital display and electric start to get it to ignite.

    Stay tuned for my next post on the rising cost of utility bills

    Follow my blog to get notified of my next post on the rising cost of utility bills. Leave a comment and tell me what your utility bills used to be and what they are now.

  • The secret utility companies don’t want you to know

    The secret utility companies don’t want you to know

    Utility disconnection

    Anyone who’s ever had a utility disconnection has no doubt received the the ” Attention Occupants!” paper telling them their service has been disconnected. That paper will typically give a phone number to call and an amount required to restore service.

    The scare tactic

      If you look at the bottom of that paper it say something along the lines of “do not use candles or generators to light or heat your home.”  It will go on to say candles can cause a fire and generators can create dangerous fumes.

    The secret

     What they don’t tell you is gas powered generators are dangerous only if used indoors. They don’t tell you that solar powered generators and portable power banks (also solar powered) are perfectly safe and can provide most if not all of your electricity needs.

    Utility companies will not tell you about the solar powered options because they can not make money from you. They want you to continue to pay high utility bills, restoration fees, and deposits. They don’t want this information to get out because they know they have a lot of angry customers who will utilize the solar powered options instead of using grid power.

    The effect

    If enough of their customers switch to the solar powered options the utility companies will either go bankrupt or be forced to lower the cost of electricity to the remaining customers and they know it. 

    supply, demand, and the middleman

    The electric company is just a middle man between the supply (electricity) and the demand (you). They are a business like any other but the difference is they think very few of us have another option. That might be true if you’re thinking solar panels on your roof, not everyone can afford that, but there are other options for those of us who can’t afford the full solar panels on the roof option or living arrangements (apartments, condos, townhomes where the HOA runs the show) prevent it.

    Look for my next post to learn about the more affordable options and how to decide which ones are right for you.

    leave a comment below and tell me your utility disconnection or high energy bill horror story.

  • Shady practices used by the electric company

    Shady practices used by the electric company

       The electric companies have quite the history of shady practices. I don’t even know how far down this rabbit hole goes.

    Identify the shady behavior

    The first thing that comes to mind is outdated and malfunctioning meters. These issues cause higher meter readings and that will cost you, the consumer more money every month. That alone isn’t what makes it shady. What makes it shady is when they are aware of the malfunction and refuse to fix or replace the meter.

    over charging consumers

       They know they are charging you too much but they won’t correct it because it doesn’t benefit them. When you begin to fight back, that’s when these greedy companies want to “investigate.” When your bill is much lower than it was in previous months they may send someone out to check the meter for signs of tampering (which by the way is illegal so DO NOT tamper with the meter.) The utility companies will only investigate when it negatively impacts their bottom line.

    Error or outright lie?

    The second thing that comes to mind is when the electric company claims they haven’t received a payment in months. They shut off a customer’s service, refusing to reconnect the customer’s service even after submitting proof of multiple payments. They demand a large payment and charge the customer a reconnection fee. The electric company will never admit they made a mistake and return the amount that that was over paid. I have personal experience with this behavior.

    Corporate greed and personal experience

    They shut off my service on my birthday which ruined my plans. I called to find out why and they claimed to have not received a payment in months. I submitted proof of multiple payments that were made. They still refused to restore my service with out a payment. I had to schedule an appointment with a local community resource office to get service restored. I then cancelled that appointment.

    Equipment maintenance

     The third thing that comes to mind is failure to maintain equipment. When utility companies fail to maintain their equipment it can cause power surges. Power surges run up your electric bill and can damage your electronics and your electrical outlets. Improperly maintained equipment can also lead to frequent power outages and more power surges when service is restored.

    Are the electric companies doing this on purpose? 

     Yes and no. While they may not directly intend to cause power surges, their refusal to fix and update equipment is deliberate. They know it causes power surges, they know it costs you, the consumer more money. They don’t want to hurt their record profits so they instead choose to ignore their responsibilities.

    Inflation is not the only cause of higher bills

    These are just a few of the shady things the electric company is pulling. All too often the consumer sees the effects of these shady practices and they blame inflation and rising costs of pretty much everything. They conclude that it makes sense that their utility bills would be much higher too until their service is shut off when it shouldn’t be and then the consumer starts doing some digging. That digging is probably what brought you here, or you were looking for cost effective ways to combat your high energy bills. No matter what the reason you landed here this blog can help you cut your energy costs down.

    Solution

    Get solar powered generators and power banks to provide electricity until service is restored. You could potentially provide your own electricity full time and leave service off. If you do owe your utility company money make an appointment with your local resource office and keep that appointment.

    Leave a comment below, share your experience with these greedy companies and read my next post to learn the secret utility companies don’t want you to know.