Last Updated on December 8, 2021 by Kravelv
Why are bills so high? The main reason—which is becoming more significant each year — is inefficient homes.
We all know that saving energy can save money, but many Americans aren’t taking the initiative. Just think of how much you could be saving each year if your home had more insulation or better air sealing.
There are several simple ways to start saving on electricity bills. Here are a few ideas:
Inspect, Repair, and Seal Ducts
According to the Department of Energy, energy lost through air leakage can account for 25%–40% of your home’s heating and cooling costs.
If you suspect that air leaks are costing you money, consider hiring an HVAC contractor to insulate and seal your ducts. It’s well worth the expense if you do the math.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can allow you to maintain a set temperature in your home, saving energy and saving money on your utility bills. During certain times of day, it can enable your heating or cooling system to come on when needed, then turn off when the house is warm enough or cool enough.
Get Professionally Installed Insulation
Insulation is one of the best investments that you can make for your home. Not only will it keep your house at a consistent temperature, saving money and saving energy, but it also reduces outside noise.
Choose ENERGY STAR® Certified Windows and Doors
When properly maintained, windows are key elements of a building enclosure that keep conditioned air in during the winter and out during the summer. Windows can account for up to 25% of a home’s total energy use, so it pays to choose ENERGY STAR certified windows.
Install Solar Panels to Save Money
Installing solar panels can reduce your electricity usage by up to 50% because you’re not relying on the electric grid. The cost of installing the system varies, but it’s typically less expensive than purchasing energy from a utility company. Federal and state tax credits make this move even more attractive.
You can estimate solar savings in Charlotte, NC here.
Replace Incandescent Bulbs With LEDs
LEDs are highly efficient and can last up to 50,000 hours. By simply replacing your incandescent bulbs with ENERGY STAR-certified LEDs, you’ll see a saving on your annual bills.
According to Energy Star, just by swapping five of the most frequently used light fixtures or bulbs in your home for model-certified LEDs, you could save almost $60 a year in energy costs.
Unplug Devices When Not in Use
Many electric appliances continue to draw power or stay hot to the touch even when they’re turned off. Unplugging them when you’re not using them will cut down on phantom electricity usage and help you save on electricity bills.
Replace Heating/Cooling Filters Annually
Even if you don’t see dust build-up on your HVAC filters, they are likely dirty because they block the flow of air into your system. This means that your heating or cooling unit is working harder than it should be, costing you more money each month.
Simple Ideas for Saving on Electricity Bills
Saving on electricity bills is possible if you make a few small changes to your home and lifestyle. Do the math and see how much you can save in the long run.
The tips presented here are simple, easy to implement, and can save you hundreds of dollars each year.
We hope this article has shown you how to save on electricity bills. Check out the other articles on our blog.