As a homeowner, receiving a shut-off notice from Eversource can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. However, there are ways to protect your electricity from being shut off. In this article, we will explore five ways to prevent Eversource from shutting off your electricity.
Understanding Eversource Shut-Off Policies
Before we dive into the ways to protect your electricity, it's essential to understand Eversource's shut-off policies. Eversource, like many other utility companies, has a set of guidelines that determine when a customer's electricity can be shut off. These policies typically include non-payment of bills, failure to comply with payment arrangements, and safety concerns.
What Triggers a Shut-Off Notice?
A shut-off notice is usually triggered when a customer fails to pay their electricity bill or neglects to make a payment arrangement. However, there may be other reasons why Eversource sends a shut-off notice, such as:
- Failure to provide access to the meter for reading or maintenance
- Tampering with the meter or electrical equipment
- Safety concerns, such as a hazardous condition at the property
5 Ways to Protect Your Electricity from Shut Off
Now that we've covered Eversource's shut-off policies, let's explore five ways to protect your electricity from being shut off:
1. Payment Arrangements
If you're struggling to pay your electricity bill, it's crucial to contact Eversource to discuss payment arrangements. Eversource offers various payment plans, such as:
- Budget billing: This plan allows you to pay a fixed amount each month, based on your average energy usage.
- Payment extensions: Eversource may grant you an extension on your payment due date, giving you more time to pay your bill.
- Deferred payment plans: This plan allows you to make smaller payments over a longer period.
2. Energy Assistance Programs
Eversource offers various energy assistance programs to help low-income households pay their electricity bills. These programs include:
- Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This program provides financial assistance to low-income households to help with energy bills.
- Eversource's Energy Assistance Program: This program offers discounts on electricity bills for eligible low-income households.
How to Apply for Energy Assistance Programs
To apply for energy assistance programs, you'll need to contact Eversource or your local social services department. You'll need to provide documentation, such as:
- Proof of income
- Proof of residency
- Identification
3. Energy Efficiency Upgrades
Energy efficiency upgrades can help reduce your energy consumption, which can lead to lower electricity bills. Eversource offers various energy efficiency programs, such as:
- Home energy audits: This program provides a comprehensive energy audit of your home, identifying areas for energy efficiency improvements.
- Rebates for energy-efficient appliances: Eversource offers rebates for purchasing energy-efficient appliances, such as LED light bulbs and energy-efficient refrigerators.
Benefits of Energy Efficiency Upgrades
Energy efficiency upgrades can provide numerous benefits, including:
- Reduced energy consumption
- Lower electricity bills
- Increased comfort and safety
4. Monitoring Your Energy Usage
Monitoring your energy usage can help you identify areas for improvement and reduce your energy consumption. Eversource offers various tools and resources to help you monitor your energy usage, such as:
- Online energy usage tracking: Eversource's online portal allows you to track your energy usage in real-time.
- Smart meters: Eversource's smart meters provide detailed energy usage data, helping you identify areas for improvement.
How to Monitor Your Energy Usage
To monitor your energy usage, follow these steps:
- Log in to your Eversource online account
- Click on the "Energy Usage" tab
- View your energy usage data in real-time
5. Communication with Eversource
Communication is key when it comes to preventing shut-offs. If you're experiencing financial difficulties or have concerns about your electricity bill, it's essential to contact Eversource. Eversource offers various ways to communicate, including:
- Phone: 1-800-286-5844
- Email:
- Online chat: Eversource's online portal offers live chat support
Benefits of Communication
Communicating with Eversource can provide numerous benefits, including:
- Preventing shut-offs
- Resolving billing issues
- Accessing energy assistance programs
Now that you've learned about the five ways to protect your electricity from shut off, we encourage you to take action. Whether you're struggling to pay your electricity bill or simply want to reduce your energy consumption, there are resources available to help.
Don't wait until it's too late – contact Eversource today to discuss your options. Remember, communication is key, and taking proactive steps can help prevent shut-offs and ensure your electricity remains on.
What is the best way to prevent a shut-off notice from Eversource?
+The best way to prevent a shut-off notice from Eversource is to communicate with the company and make payment arrangements or take advantage of energy assistance programs.
How can I reduce my energy consumption to lower my electricity bill?
+You can reduce your energy consumption by taking advantage of energy efficiency upgrades, such as installing LED light bulbs and energy-efficient appliances.
What is the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)?
+LIHEAP is a program that provides financial assistance to low-income households to help with energy bills.