Do you ever get an electricity bill that makes your jaw drop? With electricity being one of the fastest-increasing utility costs, it’s essential to know how to reduce our usage and save more money. As you likely know, every action reacts, and so do home appliances and gadgets when it comes to their effects on your wallet. Fortunately, cutting down on energy usage isn’t as hard as it seems – all you need is some insight into the energy consumption habits in your household.
In this article, we will explore some simple yet effective methods of identifying where your energy is going while also offering helpful tips for lowering the cost of your electricity bills. Read on to discover how minor adjustments can help offset skyrocketing electric costs.
Invest in energy-efficient appliances
Are slow cookers energy efficient? The answer is yes. Many modern appliances are designed to be energy-efficient, consuming less electricity and saving you money in the long run. If you’re in the market for new appliances, look for ENERGY STAR certified, as these use less than half of the energy consumed by non-certified models.
Investing in energy-efficient appliances will save you capital and help the environment by reducing carbon emissions. Regarding heating and cooling, look for HVAC systems certified by the Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR program – these systems can save up to 15% on electricity costs.
Switch to LED lightbulbs
LED lightbulbs are not only cheaper to purchase but also more energy efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs. Switching to LED lighting can save you up to 80% on your electricity bill and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
If you want to make your lighting even more efficient, consider investing in intelligent lighting systems that allow you to control the intensity and color of the lights from your smartphone. Intelligent lighting systems are also compatible with voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. You can turn them on or off without even getting out of bed.
Unplug appliances on standby
Did you know that electronics on standby mode still consume electricity? To save energy, it’s best to unplug all your appliances when they are not in use. Also, be mindful that most electronic devices have power adapters that can draw power even when the device is turned off – so make sure to unplug them too.
Use a smart thermostat
A smart thermostat can help you regulate the temperature in your home and reduce energy consumption. These thermostats are designed to recognize when no one is home, so they automatically adjust the temperature accordingly – making it easier for you to save money on heating costs.
Another great feature of a smart thermostat is its ability to be remotely controlled. It means you can adjust the temperature in your home while away so that when you get back, there’s no need to wait for it to warm up or cool down.
Utilize natural lighting
Natural lighting is one of the most effective ways to save on electricity costs. Open your windows and blinds throughout the day to allow in as much sunlight as possible – this will help reduce the need for artificial lighting, thus reducing your energy bills.
To further maximize natural lighting, consider installing solar shades which act as a thermal barrier. It will limit heat gain in the summer and reduce heat loss during the winter, thus helping you save energy all year round.
Set the right temperature on your water heater
Setting the right temperature on your water heater can save up to 7% of your electricity bill. The optimal temperature for most households is between 50 and 60 degrees Celsius, though you may want to check with your local utility company for more specific instructions.
If you’re looking for an even easier solution, consider investing in a smart water heater. These devices can be programmed to switch off when they’re not in use, thus saving you money and energy with minimal effort.
Minimize air conditioning and heating usage
It’s essential to turn off your air conditioning and heating when you don’t need them. If the temperature isn’t too extreme, try simply opening windows or using fans instead, this will help reduce energy consumption and save money on electricity bills.
You should also take steps to minimize heat loss in your home. It can include adding extra insulation, caulking or weather stripping around windows and door frames, and installing energy-efficient doors. These measures can help reduce your heating costs by up to 10%.
Use power strips and smart plugs
Power strips and smart plugs can be a great way to save energy. These devices allow you to switch off multiple appliances at once, thus saving you time and electricity costs. Smart plugs are handy in that they enable you to control your appliances remotely from your smartphone or voice assistant – so you can turn them on or off even when you’re not home.
Change laundry habits
Doing laundry is one of the biggest energy hogs in any household. To save electricity, try to wash your clothes with cold water rather than hot and avoid drying them in the dryer if you can. Hang up garments outside to air dry instead.
If you must use a dryer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. It means using the temperature setting recommended for your specific clothes and cleaning out lint filters regularly to ensure optimal performance.
