The electric consumption of an appliance depends on its wattage rating and on how much use it is given. Items with higher wattage rating consume more than those with lower rating. To estimate an appliance's electric consumption, divide the wattage rating by 1,000 and you get that unit's kilowatthour consumption for one hour of use.

     Naturally, you will have an added consumption if you replace a 150-watt 6 cu. ft. refrigerator with a 200-watt 10 cu. ft. type. Choose only the size appropriate to your needs and size of your family.

     Additional people in the house such as guests or staying relatives could mean more cooking and longer use of the electric stove, or children home from school could mean more TV viewing, more ironing, longer use of fans and aircon units, which will lead to increased consumption. Avoid wasteful habits - iron clothes in batches instead of piece by piece; if your fan has a timer, use it so it will just switch off by itself in case you doze off. Also, the weather and the season brings about a considerable difference in your electric consumption as airconditioners and refrigerators work harder and longer in the summer months.

     Wires are protected by rubber insulation but when this insulation is cut or torn thus exposing the wire inside, this not only poses as safety hazard but also wastes electricity. When the bare wire gets in contact with objects that conduct electricity, this results in electricity leakage, a condition commonly called "grounded." Electricity leakage adds to your consumption in the same manner that a leaking water pipe or dripping faucet adds to your water bill.

     Meter readings are scheduled in such a way that billing periods cover more or less a month, or 30 days. However, it is not always possible for the Meter Reader to read exactly on the same day each month because of holidays, wet weather, and sickness. The period covered and the number of days are indicated on your electric bill. Compare your monthly bills as you might have bills with shorter and longer billing periods.

     An incorrect reading could be made especially if the meter is located where it is difficult to read such as if it's been installed too high, the meter glass is covered with thick and hardened dust, or a building extension has partially covered the view of the meter. As much as possible, the meter must be facing the street, clear of obstruction, and installed not more than 6-feet high. The date when we read your meter is indicated on your bill; read your meter on this date every month so you can monitor your electric consumption.

     Our meter reading system has a cumulative feature that ensures that any meter reading error committed is automatically covered up in the subsequent month's reading. Thus, an over-reading this month normally results in a lower consumption in the following month; and an under-reading results in a higher consumption in the next month. An adjustment is made to your account when an incorrect reading is made.

     The electric meter is a precise instrument that registers, in kilowatthour (kWh), your electric consumption. It is tested, calibrated, and sealed by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) before it is issued by VECO to its customers. However, if you feel that the meter is faulty, you may request for a meter test by filing out our online check meter request form. A VECO and/ or an ERC representative will conduct the test in your presence.