High energy bills can take a huge bite out of your monthly budget. Fortunately, you don’t need expensive solar panels or major renovations to cut down your electricity costs. By making a few small adjustments to your daily routine, you can noticeably reduce your energy usage. Here are 7 practical habits to lower your electric bill starting today.
- 1. Unplug “Phantom” Devices
- Electronics like TVs, gaming consoles, and microwave ovens consume electricity even when turned off. Plug these devices into power strips with switches so you can completely cut off power when they are not in use.
- 2. Upgrade to LED Light Bulbs
- If you are still using incandescent or CFL bulbs, switch to LEDs immediately. LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last significantly longer, making them one of the easiest ways to save on your bill.
- 3. Optimize Your Thermostat Settings
- Adjusting your thermostat by just 1 to 2 degrees can make a noticeable difference in your cooling and heating costs. During the summer, set it a bit higher, and during the winter, lower it slightly when you leave the house.
- 4. Wash Clothes in Cold Water
- Around 75% to 90% of the energy your washing machine uses goes toward heating the water. Switching your laundry routine to cold water cleans most everyday clothes just as effectively while saving electricity.
- 5. Air-Dry Your Laundry
- Clothes dryers are among the most energy-hungry appliances in any household. Whenever the weather permits, hang your clothes on a drying rack instead of running a full dryer cycle.
- 6. Maintain Proper Fridge and Freezer Temps
- Keep your refrigerator set between 35°F and 38°F (1.6°C to 3.3°C) and your freezer at 0°F (-18°C). Also, keep them reasonably full; a well-stocked fridge holds temperature better than an empty one.
- 7. Seal Air Leaks Around Windows and Doors
- Drafty windows and doors let cooled or heated air escape, forcing your HVAC system to work overtime. Use weatherstripping or door drafts to keep your indoor air tightly sealed.