Opening your monthly electricity bill to see that it increased yet again causes frustration for many homeowners. Instead of dealing with ever-increasing utility bills, now is the time to be more energy efficient. Use these five tips to reduce your electricity bills in the new year.
1. Replace Incandescent Light Bulbs
You might be surprised to learn that some of the simplest electrical items in your home waste the most money. For example, a 60-watt incandescent light bulb costs about $22 per year to operate. A CFL light bulb with equivalent wattage costs just $7 per year to operate, and an LED light bulb with the same wattage costs about $10 annually to operate. Replacing 10 incandescent bulbs and installing CFL bulbs will save you about $150 in the new year.
2. Replace Old Appliances
If your refrigerator, electric range or clothes dryer has reached adulthood, it’s time to replace it. These old, inefficient appliances could be driving up your electricity bills. Many utility companies offer credits, free removal services and other incentives to offset the cost of replacing old appliances with more efficient models.
3. Insulate Your Home
Many older homes lack sufficient insulation. Insulating your home reduces unwanted air exchange. In the summertime, unwanted air exchange causes heat and humidity to increase your air conditioning costs. In the winter months of the year, unwanted air exchange with the outdoors increases your heating costs. Adding insulation, weatherstripping and caulk reduces these air leaks and improves the comfort of your home.
4. Upgrade Your Air Conditioning System
If your air conditioner is 10 years old or older, it’s not as efficient as today’s models. Replacing your old, inefficient air conditioner that has a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating of 10 with a new cooling system with a SEER rating at least 15 could lower your summertime cooling costs by at least 30%. When shopping for a new air conditioner, choose one with the Energy Star certification. These units are the most efficient models available.
5. Unplug What’s Not in Use
It might seem like a hassle, but unplugging electrical appliances that you’re not using will lower your electricity bills. Many appliances use “ghost energy.” They use electricity to power lights and remain in a state of readiness. If you use power strips, just turn off the power strip when none of the items on it are in use. If you have a home automation system, you’ll be able to turn outlets on and off with a tap in your app.
Instead of paying more on your electricity bills in 2022, you can save that money and invest it, use it for something fun or make some energy-efficient upgrades to your home. Our electricians install energy-efficient fixtures to help you save even more. For more energy-saving tips or to get a quote on any of our electrical services, reach out to us at Economy Lighting & Electric Inc. today.
