Unplug electronics that still use electricity when plugged in. Even when your television is off, it could still use over 6 watts of electricity. Plug electronics into a surge protector and switch off the protector when they aren’t in use. Who knows how much energy your appliances are using up even when you think they’re off!
Wash clothes in cold water. According to EnergyStar, heating water is 90% of your washer’s energy usage. Wash all clothes in cold water whenever possible. Usually, this doesn’t affect the cleaning power. Plus, it stops clothes from fading as quickly.
Use a programmable thermostat. You could save 10% per year on your heating bills by turning down your thermostat eight hours per day. Set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re not home. Don’t want to come home to a warm house? Consider new “smart thermostats” that can be programmed from your phone. That way, you can set it on your way back from the office and your home will be cool when you get there.
Don’t leave the lights on. Sometimes the simplest changes can really help! Turn off lights when you leave the house—or even when you leave the room.
Replace baths with showers. The average bath uses up to fifty gallons of water. That’s twice as much as a low-flow shower. You could spend half as much energy heating up your water by replacing a few baths with showers instead.
Use energy-efficient light bulbs. Replacing your incandescent bulbs with CFLs or LEDs can save lots of energy. LED light bulbs only use ¼ of the energy that traditional light bulbs use. Plus, they can last 25 times longer!
Use Energy Star appliances. Did you know that the U.S. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) started a program to help you save energy? It’s called EnergyStar. And it’s saved consumers over $362 billion dollars on utility bills since it began! Replace your appliances with their recommended energy-saving appliances to start saving.
Take some time outside the house. Small habits can make a big difference. Need to unwind? Consider taking a walk instead of watching TV a couple days a week. You’ll save energy while getting healthier.
Check with your electricity company to see if they offer financial aid. If you meet certain income guidelines, or are part of eligible public programs, you could qualify for help. Check with your electricity provider to see if they offer programs that can lower or subsidy your bills.
And the best way to lower your bill? Install solar panels! While all of these options can lower your bills, they can’t lower it as much as installing solar power. Solar energy is renewable energy that replaces the electricity you buy from the utility company. In fact, some customers even have the electric company paying them for their extra photovoltaic energy! Solar panel prices are lower than ever, while electric bills keep going up. Looking for a solar company? Get a free energy analysis from local and veteran owned Semper Solaris.
*On approved credit. 30 percent federal tax credit based on eligibility, consult your tax advisor. **On approved credit. Savings based on size of roof. Cool Roof upgrade with roof replacement only. ***Must purchase a complete heating system. †Present this at the time of your appointment. ‡Unlimited referrals accepted. Maximum awarded amount per new customer is $550 for referrals that purchase. Referral name must be supplied by referrer, referral amount paid after completion of installation and payment. FOR ALL OFFERS: New customers only, some restrictions apply. Cannot be combined with other offers. For more information on warranties call or see website for details - Warranties.