Did you know that the average American family spends over USD$115 a month or up to USD$1,400 annually? While no one likes seeing their electricity bills, it’s every homeowner’s monthly responsibility in exchange for the convenience it provides them.
That said, with electricity bills and energy prices rising by up to 30%, it may be putting some strain on your wallet. While you can’t do much about the increasing energy prices, there are some ways to help reduce your energy use.
In this article, we’re sharing several tips to help lower your energy use and your electricity bill.
1. Compare Electricity Plans
One way to save significantly on electricity bills is to change your provider and find and compare cheap electricity rates.
If the prices from your current electricity provider seem inflated, then there’s a chance that energy prices in the area are high.
That said, it’s still worth shopping around so you can find a competitively priced provider cutting your cost and saving significant amounts.
If you live in a deregulated electricity market such as in Texas, then you can shop around to get the best rates. Finding the right plan can be overwhelming. You need to do your homework and make a list of the best electricity providers in your area.
To make it easier, you can use an online tool like ElectricityPlans to compare rates and find the right electricity plan for your home.
2. Be Mindful Of Your Lighting
As a kid, your parents probably reminded you thousands of times to turn off the light when you leave your room.
After all, it’s the simplest way to help reduce the unnecessary use of energy, saving money on electricity bills. Thus, you want to apply it now more than ever.
Other than always turning off lights in any room that isn’t in use, it’s also beneficial to switch to LED bulbs. These bulbs are favored due to their high energy efficiency.
In fact, reports show that LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy. Not only that, but they also last longer than older types such as halogen and incandescent bulbs. Plus, they produce better lighting.
In addition, you may also consider using task lighting. For instance, if you’re working from home, consider using a desk lamp instead of switching on the main lights in your room.
If you’re watching your favorite shows, you can turn off the lights. Not only does it help save you money, but it also creates a more cinematic experience.
3. Insulate Your Home
Proper home insulation helps keep heat trapped inside and cuts your HVAC electricity bills. You can start insulating by sealing the windows and doors with caulk.
Keep the windows covered with curtains and blinds when it’s cold outside to help keep warm air in your home and vice versa, helping reduce energy consumption.
Make sure to insulate any opening. If you have an attic, invest in an attic tent that should keep hot air from escaping.
You should also consider insulating your water heater, especially during winter, preventing hot water from cooling off faster.
4. Lower Your Water Heater Temperature
Did you know that your water heater is one of the most energy-intensive systems, along with your HVAC system? Thus, you need to make sure it isn’t using energy more than it needs.
Other than the previous tip to insulate your water heater, you also need to lower its default temperature. In general, most water heaters have a default temperature setting of 140 degrees.
However, you don’t need your water to be that hot. Lowering the water heater set temperature by a few degrees can help save a significant amount of money while still providing warm water throughout your home.
5. Invest In Energy Efficient Appliances
Appliances take up over 10% of your total household electricity use. Thus, you want them to be as energy-efficient as possible. When buying an appliance, you need to pay attention to always look for an Energy Star rating.
The Energy Star labels are a federal guarantee that appliance consumers have less energy than standard models. Take note that energy savings can differ based on a specific appliance and model.
Takeaway
And there you have it! These are just some of the ways to help conserve electricity and consequently save on electricity bills.
Some of these tips won’t take longer than a few minutes, allowing you to start cutting your electricity bill right away. Making these several smaller changes will eventually add up to big yearly savings.
