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5 Surprising Ways to Save on Your Electric Bill

Blog | August 18th, 2017

5 Surprising Ways to Save on Your Electric Bill


Saving at the store isn’t enough when your monthly bills keep you down. Creating a more energy efficient home can save you as much as collecting freebies and saving on groceries, if not more. That’s why we’re going to help you save on your electric bill with these tips!

1) Prepare Your Home for Colder Weather

Before the weather cools off, prepare your home for the winter to keep heating costs down. First, add some extra insulation for cheap via weather stripping. These strips can be easily installed on windows and doors to keep hard-earned heat inside your home.

Next, check your heater ducts and filters to make sure they’re clean and contain no obstructions. Dirty filters are notorious for reducing the efficiency of your heater and increasing costs. You can also save by making sure there’s no furniture, curtains or equipment blocking the vents in your home!


2) Fix and Replace Aging Appliances

You may think you’re saving money by holding onto that 20-year-old washer, but studies have shown that aging, inefficient appliances can do more harm than good. Examine your washer, dryer, refrigerator, dishwasher and water heater to determine if you need an upgrade.

Upgrade to Energy Star appliances, which are tested and trusted to be the most energy efficient options on the market. For example, replacing a washer that’s 15-20 years old with a new Energy Star equivalent will save you as much as $110 a year!

3) Make Everyday Energy Use More Efficient

Saving is all about the details, and reducing your electric bill is no different. Little things like switching your light switches with dimmer switches can save you in the long run. If weather permits, you can also switch to air drying laundry during the day so you don’t need to use your dryer.

Reduce the energy your refrigerator uses by keeping it stocked year-round. It’s scientifically proven that your fridge uses less energy when there are more food and drinks that keep other items cold. If you have a lot of space and don’t want to buy more stuff, just fill your refrigerator with bottles or containers of water!

4) Let Your Water Heater Cool Off

Your water heater performs essential functions in your home, but just because it’s out of sight, doesn’t mean it isn’t expensive. Reduce the cost of showers by switching to a low-flow showerhead. Normal showerheads use 3-4 gallons of water per minute, while low-flow alternatives cut that in half, decreasing water heater usage.

Also, you may think you’re saving electricity by not running your dishwasher, but that’s not the case. Surprisingly, dishwashers that use hot water are more water (and energy) efficient than hand washing dishes in hot water. In this case, using an appliance can save you money!

5) Know When to Use Appliances and When to Unplug Them

Did you know that many utility companies charge you more for energy use during peak hours? Stick to using high-demand appliances after 7 p.m. or before noon. Make simple adjustments like waiting to run the dishwasher in the morning or showering later in the night. The change to your schedule can save you in the long run!

Another culprit causing your electricity bill to rise are plugged in electronics that sap power when they’re not in use. Consider unplugging kitchen appliances, computers, phone chargers and more when they’re not needed to cut down on phantom electricity use.