The local Facebook group is full of people’s grasp on their latest utility bills. In my area, it seems that the electricity bill (and everything else) has just passed through the roof. Many people are struggling to keep up with rising energy costs. However, there are some things you can do to try to make it as low as possible. If you’ve been wondering how to save on electricity, try some of these 10 hacks to see how much you can save.
1. Adjust the thermostat
Heating and cooling make up your electricity bills. Lower the thermostat several degrees in the winter and raising it in the summer can lead to significant savings. Programmable or smart thermostats can automatically make these adjustments, saving energy while you are asleep or away. Setting the thermostat to 68°F in winter and 78°F in summer is a great way to reduce costs.
2. Pull out the energy vampire
Even when the power is turned off, many devices continue to absorb the power. These “energy vampires” include TVs, game consoles, chargers and kitchen utensils. Plug them into the power board to easily turn off multiple devices at once. The smart power strip also automatically cuts the power to unused devices.
3. Switch to LED bulb
If you are still using an incandescent bulb, throw the money away. LED bulbs consume 75% less energy and last longer, saving power and replacement costs. They also generate less heat, which helps reduce cooling costs in summer. Swap only a few high bulbs to change your bill.
4. Using intelligent power management
Smart plug and energy monitoring applications help you track and control energy usage. These tools can be arranged when the device is turned on and off, thus preventing unnecessary waste of power. Some smart home systems can even detect when you are not going home and adjust settings accordingly. If you haven’t used a smart plug yet, consider providing one for energy-consuming appliances.
5. Sealed air leakage
Ventilated doors and windows allow air to escape, making your HVAC system work even harder. Seal leakage with weather stripping or caulkant can prevent energy losses and lower bills. Check the blanks around windows, doors and even electrical outlets. Proper insulation of your home helps maintain temperature levels without overheating and cooling the system.
6. Washing clothes in cold water
Laundry water requires a lot of energy. Switching to cold water cleaning can save up to 90% of typical load energy. Nowadays, most detergents are designed to work well in cold water, so your clothes will still be clean. Running full load instead of smaller loads can also maximize efficiency.
7. Upgrade to energy-saving appliances
Older appliances consume more electricity than newer energy-saving models. Refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines with energy star ratings use less power when executed. Even using an energy-efficient model instead of an old microwave or toaster can be added up. If the upgrade is not in your budget, consider using existing appliances more efficiently.
8. Take advantage of off-peak hours
Many utilities charge lower rates during off-peak hours. Running major appliances like dishwashers, washing machines and ovens at night or early in the morning can save you money. Some providers even offer special programs to reward you with transferring your energy use to off-peak times.
9. Use ceiling fans the right way
Ceiling fans can make your home feel cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter – if used correctly. In summer, rotate the fan counterclockwise to create a breeze that cools the room. In winter, switch it clockwise at low speed to clockwise to push the warm air down. This reduces the need for overheating or cooling, thus lowering your energy bill.
10. Clean and maintain your HVAC system
Dirty HVAC systems work harder and use more energy. Replacing the air filter every 1-3 months ensures better airflow and efficiency. Annual professional maintenance can also capture minor issues before getting expensive repairs. Keeping the vents clear and regularly cleaning the ducts helps your system distribute air more efficiently.
Start saving now
Don’t make things complicated. When it comes to your electricity bill, small changes can honestly make a huge impact. If you want to know how to save on electricity, there are a lot of places you can start on this list. The key is to point out where you use the most energy in your home and try to minimize usage. This is not impossible! It only takes a little effort.
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