Energy efficient upgrades in the home can save money on heating and cooling costs, while helping to reduce carbon emissions.
While some cost-saving measures come at a cost, there are also plenty of low-cost tips that you can implement at home to save money. Here are a few: 1. Switch out traditional lightbulbs for energy efficient LED or CFL light bulbs
1. Turn off appliances when not in use
Utilities account for a substantial share of household costs. There are simple strategies you can employ to lower utility bills, like switching from using a dryer to air drying clothesline or taking shorter showers. Another effective approach to savings involves improving energy efficiency through installing ENERGY STAR appliances in your home.
Unplugging gadgets when they aren’t being used is a great way to cut energy consumption and lower bills. Games consoles in particular often draw on too much power even when not in use – make it part of your routine to switch them off and unplug them every night before heading to bed.
Undergoing a home energy audit is another excellent way to identify problem areas and solutions, which will not only lower your bills but may even qualify you for rebates. Other small changes that could help include:
2. Install a programmable thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat can be one of the best ways to reduce energy costs over time, helping you set temperature settings at different times of the day and only run your furnace or AC when necessary, saving on energy bills significantly over time.
Programmable thermostats can be purchased from most hardware stores and should be selected carefully according to your current heating and cooling system and ease of use. When looking for one of these models, be sure that it works seamlessly.
Energy bills can be among the most cumbersome household expenses, and finding ways to lower them should be an integral part of life. By following these simple tips you may see significant savings on one of your most costly bills – why wait any longer – start saving today and begin reaping benefits of our assistance should anything arise? Good luck and don’t hesitate to get in touch!
3. Run your dishwasher at night
As energy costs continue to soar, it is wise to find ways to cut back on household energy consumption. While expensive appliances and gadgets may offer assistance, small changes such as running the dishwasher at night may also save money.
Con Edison reports that night is the best time of day to run your dishwasher, as most daytime hours are considered peak periods when demand for energy increases and costs consequently rise.
If you can avoid running large appliances like your dishwasher and washing machine during peak energy hours, your energy company is likely to offer cheaper rates during off-peak periods (commonly known as Time-of-Use pricing). Although this tip might require altering your household cleaning schedule to match off-peak energy times, the potential savings could make the effort worth your while in the long run.
4. Install a smart power strip
Certain electronics consume electricity even after being turned off – this phenomenon, known as vampire load, can cost hundreds of dollars annually.
Smart power strips will detect unused devices and turn them off automatically, while providing one or two outlets which remain powered 24/7 – ideal for devices requiring constant power like alarm systems.
Many smart strips are Homekit-compatible, enabling Siri to control them off and on. Other models come equipped with timers that will switch outlets off automatically on certain days – perfect for entertainment systems! There is also an activity monitor built-in which detects when devices are no longer being used and shuts them down accordingly – providing another simple way to cut your electricity costs and make your house more eco-friendly! These products can be found at major retailers as well as online, starting from approximately $20.
