Reducing energy waste and using less power can lead to lower electric bills. Luckily, there are plenty of easy ways to save on electricity and lower costs.
These easy tips will help you save money on your electricity bill year-round. You can also request a free home energy audit from your utility company if you need more inspiration.
Install Solar Panel
Installing solar power systems can give homeowners several advantages, including lower electric bills, reduced carbon footprints, and possibly increased home values. Solar panels work best for homes with plenty of sun exposure all year. Make sure you comprehend the social and economic implications, including solar panel maintenance, before using solar power.
Turn Off Electronics When Not In Use
It was turning off electronics when not in use is an energy-efficient tip that can save you a lot of money on your electricity bills. It is also an excellent way to prevent electrical fires.
Vampire appliances, or those that drain electricity even when you turn them off, are a common problem in modern homes. They contribute to phantom load bills that add up to 23% of the total energy consumption in the average household, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council.
Luckily, there are a few ways to stop vampires from stealing your power. You can unplug or group them on a power strip and turn them on only when needed.
Turn Off Air Conditioner Upon Leaving
Most homeowners are familiar with the theory that shutting down your air conditioner when you leave saves you money on your utility bill. However, a recent study shows that this is only sometimes true.
Researchers from the University of Colorado Boulder examined energy models to see whether shutting off your air conditioning saved you money on your electricity bill. Their results revealed that it depends on a variety of factors.
For example, if you’re planning on staying away for a week or more, it may be more cost-effective to turn your AC off while you’re gone. Additionally, it will aid in preventing humidity issues in your home, which can result in mold and mildew.
Replace Your Light Bulbs With LEDs
LEDs are an energy-efficient alternative to traditional incandescent bulbs. They have a higher initial cost but lower maintenance costs to nearly zero, saving you money in the long run.
They are also more durable, lasting up to 80,000 hours. It is four times longer than a typical fluorescent or metal halide light bulb, making them ideal for hard-to-reach fixtures and sports facilities.
Unlike incandescent bulbs, which have carbon filaments and burn out quickly, LEDs are made from diodes that don’t burn out and produce low light levels for a very long time. They also don’t emit much heat, so they can be installed in various locations and provide high-quality light comparable to natural sunlight.
Install Insulation
Properly insulate your home. Insulation helps keep your walls, floors and ceilings more consistent with the outside temperature so that you don’t have to use your heating or cooling systems as much.
Adding insulation to your home is an excellent energy-efficient investment that pays for itself through reduced utility bills. It also helps reduce air leaks and improves the resale value of your home.
Install Dimmer Switches
Lighting is a critical part of any home. Kitchens, bedrooms, studies, dining rooms, and rec rooms all need various light levels to accommodate different needs.
You can achieve the ideal lighting for any room by installing dimmer switches. It can also help reduce electricity costs by allowing you to save on energy usage when lights are not in use.
Dimmer switches come in several styles, including rotary, toggle, rocker, and slide. You should choose the control style that matches your existing button and the type of bulbs you want to use with it.