When it comes to saving on your electric bill, the big wins often seem elusive. Renewable energy solutions and high-efficiency appliances are excellent, but they come with a price tag. However, all is not lost! There are numerous inexpensive tweaks you can make at home that can lead to tangible savings over time.
Here’s a list of 5 small changes that add up to big savings on your electric bill.
1. LED Light Bulbs For The Win
Making the switch to LED bulbs is an illuminating choice for your home and your wallet. LEDs use significantly less energy than incandescent and compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs, and they last up to 25 times longer. Energy Star-certified bulbs can save you around $75 a year on your electricity bill. Focus on frequently used lights in areas such as the kitchen, living room, and bedroom to maximize savings. Plus, with LED technology advancing, you can find bulbs that provide the warm glow you love, mimicking the cozy ambiance of traditional lights.
2. Unplug To Stop The Drain
You’ve heard it before, but unless you’ve really committed to it, you might not realize the potential savings. Many electronics and appliances continue to draw a small amount of power when they’re plugged in, even if they’re turned off. Known as standby power, it’s estimated to contribute about 5-10% of your electric bill. The solution? Get into the habit of unplugging chargers, toasters, microwaves, and other small appliances when they’re not in use. Alternatively, investing in smart power strips can automate this process by cutting off the electrical supply to devices in standby mode. This one simple change can reduce unnecessary power consumption and contribute to noticeable savings on your monthly electric bill.
3. Keep Your Fridge and Freezer Squeaky Clean
A well-maintained refrigerator and freezer can lead to noticeable savings on your energy bill. Regularly cleaning the coils can increase their efficiency, ensuring the appliance doesn’t need to work harder to keep your food cold. Additionally, make sure the seals on the doors are airtight to avoid cold air escaping. An easy test is to close the door on a dollar bill—if you can pull it out without any resistance, it’s time to replace the seal. These simple steps can help you keep more money in your pocket and less going to waste.
4. Low Flow Showerheads and Faucets
Energy costs are not just about the electricity that powers your home; they also include the water that these appliances use. Low flow showerheads and faucets save water and, in turn, the energy it takes to heat that water. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average family could save 2,700 gallons of water per year and up to $60 in utility costs by installing WaterSense-labeled bathroom sink faucets or accessories. They are designed to reduce flow while still meeting performance standards and are available in many stylish and functional options.
5. Smart Power Management
Turning off the lights when you leave a room might seem like a no-brainer, but what about managing your home’s energy use when you’re not around? Smart thermostats can learn your schedule and adjust the temperature accordingly, saving you energy when you’re not home. Smart power strips can also help by cutting off power to devices that don’t need it based on your preferences or detected inactivity. While the initial investment can be higher, the long-term savings can be substantial and often easily outweigh the cost. Plus, the added convenience and peace of mind make smart power management a win-win.
In conclusion, the key to managing your electric bill lies in the details. It’s not the monumental changes that you make once in a blue moon that rack up the savings; it’s the small, consistent adjustments to your daily habits and home that add up over time. Start with these simple steps, and you’ll be surprised at how much your savings can grow.
