Saving energy is not only good for the environment, but it can also save you money. In fact, if everyone in the United States took simple steps to conserve energy, we could save up to $80 billion per year! There are many things you can do around your home to reduce your energy consumption and save money on your electric bill. Here are ten easy tips that will help you get started.
- Try solar power for a greener lifestyle
Solar power is becoming a more viable energy solution both for individuals and entire utilities. Studies suggest that rooftop solar power on homes will have a significant impact on the planet in a few years from now. With more people using green, renewable energy sources, it’s a great time to think of ways you can help reduce your carbon footprint.
- Turn off lights
The lights in your house may not seem like a big deal, but they can add up. Each light uses between 10 and 100 watts of energy when it’s on. In fact, many people leave lights on in rooms that don’t need them or forget to turn others off when they leave the house. Make sure to turn off your lights if you’re leaving a room for more than five minutes. It can help you save up to 10 percent on your electric bill.
- Watch how long you use appliances
Appliances also use lots of energy, even when they’re not turned on! If you have a coffee maker, microwave, or dishwasher, be sure to only run them when necessary. You can cut your energy bill by 10 percent if you get in the habit of using these appliances only when needed.
- Use a power strip to stop vampires
Vampires, also known as standby power, are appliances that keep drawing electricity even when they’re turned off. Many gadgets and gizmos contain vampire power: home theater systems, video game consoles, printers, TVs, and even some new appliances. To stop vampires from taking your money, plug all electronic devices into a power strip that can be turned off. You’ll save money on your energy bill while also reducing the amount of energy vampires are using!
- Seal air leaks for better insulation
Did you know that 25 percent of the energy used in your home escapes through the walls, floors, and windows? Air leaks are often the problem since they send conditioned air outside. As a homeowner, you can help stop these drafts with weatherstripping for doors and windows. There are also new double-pane windows you can install on your old single-pane windows that will keep the cold air out and reduce heat loss.
- Install a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature of your home
When you leave your home for more than a few hours, make sure to turn down the air conditioning and heating. Programmable thermostats can help you regulate the temperature of your home while you’re gone so you don’t have to worry about paying for overworked, overheated appliances.
- Use fans instead of air conditioners
If you have central air, use fans instead of the air conditioner for certain parts of the year. Fans can help cool your home while using much less energy than an AC unit. While you might not be able to do this in extremely hot climates, it could work well for areas with cooler summers.
- Clean or replace filters regularly
Air conditioners and furnaces must work harder to move air through a dirty filter. Not only is this frustrating for you, but it can also cost a lot of money on your energy bill. Make sure to replace the filters every month or so and clean them at least once a year.
- Do your laundry efficiently
Did you know older washing machines can use up to 50 gallons of water for each load? Newer washers are much more efficient, using only 14-17 gallons on average. However, you can make your washing machine even more efficient by checking it for leaks and making sure the water level is never too high.
- Dry your clothes outside whenever possible
Air drying saves around 90 percent of the energy required to dry clothes in a dryer. Just be sure to avoid sunscreens and lotions, which can cause clothes to become discolored. If you’d rather use a dryer for your laundry, turn it on only when you’re home so you can monitor the efficiency level.
With the help of these 10 power-saving hacks, you can save a lot on your electric bill without sacrificing quality or convenience. If you really care about the environment, you will find that these tips will also serve a purpose to save the world from depleted resources.
Meta title: Ways to Reduce Power Consumption at Home
meta desc: If you want to reduce your utility bills, you can adjust your activities at home and save more energy in the long run. Here are some ways to help you do this.
