Utility budgeting

Brent and I have decided against using the budget plan for our utilities. While using a budget plan is good because you are never surprised by a huge bill, you are also never surprised (and proud of your conservation efforts) when you get a super small bill. I would rather know exactly how much energy we are using so we can see if our energy saving attempts are making any effect. Also, if you get a big refund at the end of the year, that’s all well and good, but it means that the energy company has been keeping your money interest free. I can see how using a budget may be good if finances are very tight, or if you are on a fixed income, but we don't think that it's the best plan for us.