When your electric bill is getting out of control, it’s time to look for savings options. Many people turn to companies like Electricity Monster that can reduce rates. While this is a good option, there are also other ways that you can reduce your energy costs at home. These are a few small changes that can add up to big savings.
- Use Task Lighting
Although many homes have large overhead lights, these light up a larger space than many people need. Instead of using the ceiling lights, consider using table lamps or track lighting. These smaller lights won’t provide the same amount of lighting, but they use up less energy.
- Unplug Electronics
Although you may think that your electronic devices aren’t using power when they’re not turned on, the opposite is actually true. Most devices use a lower level of energy when turned off and this standby power can account for up to 10% of your house’s electricity use. Unplug any unused electronics, and you’ll save a bundle.
- Use Window Coverings
Although you probably will need to use air conditioning in the hotter months, using window coverings to block sunlight can reduce the tern peratures Also, promoting airflow through the home with fans is a good option that is low-cost. Use these strategies during the hotter months to lower air conditioning costs.
- Hand Dry Laundry
The dryer uses up a fair amount of energy, and line-dried clothes are a simple way to cut energy uses. When the weather is nice, clothes dry within a few hours, and this method also tends to be less stressful on clothing anyways, which is why it’s often recommended. Use line drying as much as possible.
- Use a Toaster Oven
Although your toaster oven doesn’t do the same job as your regular oven, it uses much less energy. Many smaller dishes can be cooked in a toaster oven, so it’s a good option for an alternative to traditional ovens. Use the toaster oven when possible to reduce heating costs.
- Cook Outside in the Summer
Using the oven or any major device in the kitchen tends to heat up a home and will add to your cooling costs. Instead of cooking in the kitchen, try to move most of the cooking outside. Barbequing is always fun and will keep the heat outside. Summer is also a good time to have colder dishes as well, which is another way to avoid heating up your house. If you tend to use your oven every night for dinner, try to cut back to a few times a week, and you’ll notice a difference in energy use.
When it comes to saving money on residential energy, you’ll find that there are many options available to keep your costs low. From being more efficient to simply finding alternative ways to live your life, try a few of these options. Take note of how they affect your power bills, and you’ll find that you come to enjoy the cost savings.
