Although your electric bill can be a significant monthly cost, there are fortunately plenty of ways you can reduce the amount you spend on electricity. Below is a list of eight relatively straightforward things you can do to bring down your energy costs.
1. Buy Only Energy Efficient Appliances
The easiest way to identify energy efficient appliances is by looking for the Energy Star label. In addition to being more environmentally friendly, appliances with the Energy Star label are usually 10 – 20% more efficient than non-rated appliances.
2. Get Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs
A compact fluorescent light bulb uses far less electricity than its incandescent counterparts. Theses types of light bulbs also reduce greenhouse gas emissions and need to be changed far less frequently.
3. Unplug Electronic Appliances, or Use a Power Strip
Even if an electronic item is turned off, it still uses a bit of electricity. Therefore, you can save money by unplugging items when they are not in use. Alternatively, you can plug electronic items into a power strip and turn off the power strip when you are not using them.
4. Use Less Air Conditioning and More Fans
Turn on the ceiling fan and any other fans you have, since they generally use very little electricity. In contrast, air conditioners are one of the most energy-intensive appliances in your home, so try relying on it less.
5. Adjust Your Water Heater
Turn down your water heater to the lowest setting when you are not home. At other times, try to keep the temperature between 120 and 140 degrees.
6. Use Energy-Intensive Appliances during Non-Peak Hours
You can check your bill or go to the energy company’s website to find out when off-peak hours are. Use high-energy appliances such as dishwashers and laundry machines during these hours.
7. Get Dual Pane Windows and Install Shades or Screens
Using dual pane windows and installing shades or sunscreens will reduce the cost associated with heating or cooling your home.
8. Adjust Your Thermostat by a Few Degrees
PG&E recommends setting your thermostat to 68 or lower during the winter and 78 or higher during the summer.