residential

About Bill Estimating

Most of the time, Tampa Electric physically reads its meters. In some cases, however, we rely on an estimate based on past customer electricity usage. Meter estimation is used by electric utilities across the country. Each month, when we can’t reach a meter for some reason, we have to estimate.

Customer meter readings may be estimated due to severe weather and access issues at a customer’s home such as a locked gate, dangerous pets or wasps, overgrown shrubbery or an obstructed meter.

In estimating meters, we use a multi-step calculation that takes into account the customer’s prior electric usage as well as recent weather impacts. This helps us to make an accurate estimate when a physical reading is not possible.

You can learn how to check your meter yourself and compare your own readings to what appears on your bill, and contact us if there is a significant difference.

Send your meter reading in online if you have a "hard to access" meter.

Any needed corrections will be reflected in your bill once an actual meter reading occurs, which is typically the month after a meter estimation.

Customers who want more control over seasonal variability in their electric bill may want to consider using energy-saving practices in their home. There are many things you can do at home to help reduce energy costs. Here are some simple tips:

Throughout the house

Set your thermostat at 78 degrees or higher in the warmer months.
Turn off lights in rooms that are not being used.
Use ceiling fans in occupied rooms only.
Clean or replace air conditioning filters once a month.
Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs.
Have your ductwork checked for leaks.
Check the attic insulation level and upgrade, if needed.
Check for and seal leaks around doors, windows and other openings where drafts can occur.

In the kitchen

When cooking or heating small amounts of food, use a microwave instead of a conventional stove.
Replace worn-out door seals on refrigerators and freezers.
To keep your refrigerator running efficiently, dust condenser coils, which are usually found at the back of the unit.

In the laundry room

Always use the cold-water rinse cycle. Cold water gets clothes just as clean as warm water.
Dry full loads of wash in succession to take advantage of retained heat.
Clean your dryer’s lint filter after every load. Lint restricts airflow, and can pose a potential fire hazard.

For more energy-saving tips to help you cut down on electric bill costs, visit Tampa Electric’s Interactive Energy Home.