You open your mailbox and you see it: the electric bill. You open the envelope and are shocked to find an unusually high bill for the month, maybe your bill doubled or tripled. Why is this? You ask yourself: Why is my electric bill so high? What changed this month from last month? What could cause such a sudden increase?

Here are four common reasons why your electric bill might be unusually high, and what you can do to prevent it from happening next month.

Reason #1: Vampire appliances

No one likes to pay for something that they do not use, so why continue to pay for electricity that you are not directly using. Devices that stay plugged in all day continue to suck energy, even if they are not in use. Yes, you can make sure to turn off your washing machine or TV, but they are still plugged into the wall. Turning something off, really off, might require more than just flipping a switch. That computer charger you keep plugged in all the time is a waste of energy and money. Consider unplugging appliances and devices even after you turn them off, especially if you will not be home for an extended amount of time.

Reason #2: Lights and ceiling fans that are not used strategically in the home

Every house needs some form of lighting, whether it be ceiling lights or lamps. But did you know that there is a way to eliminate unnecessary electric usage by being strategic with the lighting in your house? Ceiling lights might create a bright room, but they are not efficient nor strategic. They waste electricity. Try lamps instead. They provide direct light rather than ceiling lights.  In addition, always remember to turn off lights and fans if the room is not in use. Do this, and you will no longer see unusually high electric bills.

Reason #3: Old, outdated appliances

That old TV set up in the basement that no one ever watches is sucking energy, and sucking money right out of your wallet. Old appliances and electronics that are never used are not worth saving. Instead of keeping those old electronics, consider donating them or recycling them. Better to be out of the house than sucking up more energy and increasing your monthly electric bill.

Reason #4: AC is on while the windows are open

Turning the air conditioning on while the windows are open is the equivalent of throwing money out that same window. Either keep the windows open and the AC off, or vice versa. The air conditioner is one of the biggest reasons drains on your power bill. Do not let expensive cold air go to waste. Make sure you keep your windows shut while the air conditioning is on to lower your next electric bill.