How to Save Money on your Electric Bill
Can you remember your parents yelling to you that they didn’t own the electric company? Perhaps you heard this if you left a room with the light on. Perhaps you say this to your own kids when they leave a light on or the door wide open, letting all of that energy out with it. Electric utility bills continue to rise, and it seems like our options for electronic devices in our homes continue to rise too. Luckily, you don’t need to feel like you are living in a cave or the dark ages in order to save on those monthly bills. You don’t need to sacrifice your favorite electronics either. In fact, by following just a few simple steps you can easily save on your monthly electric bill and keep some extra cash in your pocket.
Whether you live alone or have a family of eight, these tips can help you cut back on your energy usage and help you see a dramatic dip in your electric bill. Paying bills each month is painful enough, so if you can find a way to lower another one, isn’t it worth it? Take a look below at how easy it is to cut your monthly electric bill and save!
How to Save Money on Your Electric Bill in 7 Easy Steps:
1. Pay attention to your windows.
Windows can either help or hurt your energy bills. Make sure you have curtains and blinds and use them well. By closing them on warm days you can keep the sun out and prevent the air conditioner from running all day. By opening them on cool days you can allow the warm sunlight in and keep the furnace from working too hard. Use the sunlight and the windows to your advantage. It is so easy and does not cost a dime.
2. Change your filters.
It is important that you change the filters of your air conditioner and furnace. You should do this monthly, and many home owners don’t. By keeping these clean you will keep these huge appliances running efficiently.
3. Monitor the thermostat.
If you come and go a lot during the day, or don’t mind being a little cooler at night, get a programmable house thermostat. This way, you can set the thermostat to adjust itself throughout the day. It can adjust the temp while you are away and sleeping, so energy is not being wasted while no one is around or awake to use it.
4. Unplug.
Whether an electronic item is being used or not, if it is plugged in it is using precious energy. Instead, unplug. If an item is not in use whether it be a television or radio, unplug it. This will all add up. Tour you home and see how many electronics are plugged in right now and not being used. Chances are it will surprise you. So instead, unplug and save.
5. Buy more efficient light bulbs
Did you know that fluorescent bulbs are more expensive initially, but over the long run more efficient saving you cash? Invest in energy savings bulbs even though your initial cost is more than regular bulbs. Also, put your lights on timers so they turn off on their own. This will prevent wasted energy and you will see a difference in your bill for sure.
6. Bigger is not better.
Bigger appliances of course cost more to operate, so pick wisely. If you are cooking a quick meal choose the microwave over the electric oven. Use a smaller lamp as opposed to a large overhead light. A small battery operated clock beats a plug in alarm clock any day. Small changes such as these will allow you to use less energy and still perform the daily tasks you need to.
7. Replace old appliances.
Old refrigerators and freezers can really suck up valuable energy. Today’s appliances are more earth friendly and use a considerable amount less energy. If you have appliances that are 15 years old or more, it is time to replace them. You may not want the expense, but you will easily save this amount in just your first few years of use alone.
See? Saving money on your monthly electric bill does not need to be time consuming or painful. You don’t need to cook over an open fire or read at night by candlelight either. By following just a few of these tips, you will notice a reduction in your monthly bill without a doubt.
And of course as always, you can call your electric company and request information for lowering your bill. They will have all sorts of ideas to help you save energy and money. Some may even offer a free home inspection to give you personal tips on how to save on energy. Giving them a call is worth it, and you might be able to find out about further offers and incentives you can take advantage of.
So pick a tip or two and start saving money today!
Make sure you check out our Saving Money Blog and also our How to Coupon Page for more tips, tricks and videos on saving money and using coupons.