No one likes paying bills and one of the worst for many is their electric bill. Although it may seem like we are stuck paying hundreds of dollars each month to the utility companies, there are things you can do to reduce your energy use. This is why we wanted to take a look at how to easily save the most money on utilities and cut energy costs.
Here are 10 easy ways to reduce your electric bills quickly and cut energy costs
1. Use dryer balls in the dryer
They are inexpensive and can help decrease drying time for your clothes. They allow you to skip fabric softener as well, saving you even more money. Dryer balls help absorb moisture and makes it easier to get your clothes dried faster. You will use less energy with every load and cut energy costs easily.
2. Wash clothes on cold
A quick and easy way to cut the cost of energy used when washing your clothes. Cold water requires less energy, helps prevent stretching, and avoids shrinking your clothes. Using less hot water with every load of laundry you do is also one impactful way to wash in a way that saves you money.
3. Replace light bulbs
Years ago, LED light bulbs were insanely expensive and not all that practical for the average homeowner. That has all changed and now they are very affordable and with their long hour-life, LED light bulbs are a great investment. As bulbs burn out in your home, consider replacing them with more energy efficient bulbs. It is a great way to cut energy costs and keep your home bright and welcoming.
4. Adjust your thermostat
Moving your thermostat up or down a few degrees will save you hundreds of dollars each year. Especially if you use electric heat anywhere in your house. Chances are you and your family will not notice much of a difference between 73 and 75 degrees but your electric bill sure will! And if you can adjust by 5 degrees you can save a lot each year with that simple choice.
5. Unplug appliances when not in use to cut energy costs
Another great way to save on your monthly energy bill is to get in the habit of not just turning off the lamp but unplugging it. Many appliances and electronic devices still draw low levels of power when they are turned off. Rest mode, lights, and similar features all require power so if it is plugged into an outlet it can be drawing power. And when that small drain is accumulated day in and day out for a month it can add to your overall energy bill.
6. Turn your hot water heater down
Water needs to be hot to wash your dishes and clean your clothes. This does not mean it has to be scalding hot. If your water isn’t being heated over 120 degrees, you are saving on energy. And you are also making it less likely someone will get burned from hot water coming out of your faucets.
7. Do chores at night
Few people are aware that in most cases, energy costs are lower at night. However, this is not always doable as many utility companies are making moves to have flat rates for the cost of their electricity. It doesn’t hurt to try though and see if what time you use energy has an effect on your monthly electric bill.
8. Air dry your clothes
Taking a step back in time and drying clothes on a clothesline can be a good way to cut energy costs. Even if you dry some items like towels and blankets this way or certain pieces of clothing, it can help. Cutting out even 1-2 loads of clothes that need to be dried in the dryer can cut down monthly energy costs.
9. Check your HVAC filter monthly
It is important to take care of your HVAC system so it works at optimal performance and is as efficient as possible. Changing filters at least once a month is a great way to cut energy costs. Also, you should have your entire system inspected once a year by an HVAC professional to take care of any small issues before they can get out of hand and affect system performance.
10. Install ceiling fans in all rooms
A cheap and easy way to lower energy costs is to not run the AC as much but this can be hard at times. Installing ceiling fans in every room can help cut energy costs. These will help keep the house cool in the summer and warm in the winter. And if this is not an option, having portable oscillating fans in a room can help and while it uses some energy it is far less than your AC system or a window unit would use.
BONUS TIP! Upgrade your appliances to cut energy costs
There is no need to run out to upgrade all of your appliances to energy efficient ones right away. You should do it little by little as you can. When one appliance breaks down consider replacing it with the best energy-saving appliance you can afford. In some cases, you may qualify for nice tax exemptions for these purchases so keep that in mind as well as you look for ways to cut energy costs.
Contact Us Today
For more quick, easy, and practical ways to cut energy costs and reduce energy waste in your home and to get the best appliance service and repair assistance available in the area, contact us today! Our team of appliance experts is here to help you save money and get the most out of all of your appliances- both big and small!