We’ve all been there when we thought our electricity bill was too high. Unfortunately there’s really no way to make the electric company lower your bill. However, there are some ways to cut down on the cost by being proactive. Here are a few easy ways to save on that unpredictable electricity bill.
Fluorescent Light Bulbs
Using fluorescent light bulbs is a simple way to save money on electricity. Replace your bulbs with the new fluorescent bulbs now instead of waiting for the old ones to blow out. Although they do cost a bit more than regular bulbs, they only consume about one-fourth the energy and lasts ten times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs that puts out the same amount of light.
Water Heaters
An electric water heater can account for a decent portion of your monthly electric bill. There are, however, several things you can do to reduce the money spent on electricity for hot water. Wrapping your heater in a good hot water jacket and insulating the tank is one way. Washing your clothes in cold water whenever possible is another. Washing clothes in hot water may be good for really dirty loads, but cold water should be just fine for most laundry jobs. Only do laundry or the dishes when you have a full load.
A tankless water heater provides hot water on an as-needed basis. Although tankless units are more costly than other water heaters, they typically last longer, around 20 years. If buying a new water heater isn’t an option, consider turning down the thermostat by a few degrees on your current water heater.
Temperature Control
According to Smart Prepaid Electric, an affordable utility service, heating, cooling, and cooking are the biggest household electricity users. Keep the AC unit on a steady temperature or use a programmable thermostat. Use it to cool the air a few hours before you get home from work and to turn off as the air cools at night for bedtime. Ceiling fans are a great way to circulate the air, which in turn can make a home feel many degrees cooler.
Replace Your Furnace Filter
Not replacing your filter can be a costly mistake. Using old, dirty filters causes heating and ventilation systems to run less efficiently, costing more money. A strained system shortens the life of the system. If it’s too costly to buy brand new filters each time, re-usable furnace filters can be purchases. Small leaks in your home can add up. To save money, you can also use inexpensive expanding foam or caulk to seal cracks where cold or warm air typically escape. This may include around windows and door frames, basement walls, and holes in walls where pipes enter and exit the residence.
Research Your Local Energy Savings Programs
Upgrading to Energy Star appliances will save help save a fair amount of money in the long run. They also come with great rebates and incentives that help with up front cost. Research your local energy savings programs to see what is offered—upgrading to more efficient appliances can really save you money!
Electrical Devices
Don’t waste money by leaving your electrical devices plugged in. Leaving fans, lights, appliances, or computers on at night while sleeping wastes electricity. Do a walk through of your home and turn off anything that is not in use.
