In the Sarasota area, we are well aware of how overwhelming an electric bill can be in the heat of summer. In fact, utility bills are a large portion of most homeowners’ monthly budget. But we can’t turn the air conditioning off, so how can we manage our costs?
Tips to Lower Your Electric Bill
Most of us can’t last very long without electricity, but there are ways that you can keep your electric bill lower and stop the flow of money from your bank account. Here are some strategic tips to save electricity – and money – in your home.
- Schedule an Energy Audit: An energy audit will give you a snapshot assessment of where you are utilizing the most energy, and will offer recommendations as to how to make your home more energy efficient. A professional electrician can perform an energy audit, check your electrical system and recommend potential opportunities to improve efficiency.
- Be Smart with Your Appliances: Large appliances such as dishwashers, washers and dryers and refrigerators can drain a ton of electricity and cost you a lot of money. One of the most effective strategies you can implement is to replace those appliances with energy efficient units. Energy Star is a standard which will help you to choose the best energy efficient appliances for your home. Also, you can have a long-term impact on your energy bill by making small changes, such as only running the dishwasher or clothes washer when completely full.
- Make Sure Your Air Conditioner is Well Maintained: If your A/c is running inefficiently, it could be causing you to lose hundreds of dollars. If air filers are clogged or coils frozen, your A/C unit may be working too hard to keep your home cool. Older units can work overtime to keep your home at the desired temperature. A well-maintained unit working in peak condition can significantly help to keep your energy costs lower.
- Minimize Phantom Energy: The majority of your energy consumption – 75% – is the result of electronics that aren’t even turned on! When your TV, computer, coffee maker and toaster are plugged in, they are utilizing energy even if in the off position. While some choose to unplug individual appliances and devices when not in use, an easier method is to utilize power strips. You can turn 6 or more devices on and off with the flick of a single switch.
- Properly Insulate Your Home: The more insulated your house is, the easier it is for your A/C to keep the interior temperature regulated. Check the seals around windows and doors and repair any caulk or weathstripping as needed. You can also check the insulation in your attic, which will help to keep hot air from the sttic from penetrating to the interior of the home.
- Consider LED Lighting: LED lights use at least 75% less energy and last significantly longer than most incandescent bulbs. LED lights can be used in most interior situations, including bathroom lighting.
- Switch to Solar Lighting Outside: Solar lighting is cost-effective and helpful when lowering your electricity bill; simply use the power of the sun rather than your outlets for your outdoor night lighting.
The team of master electricians at Promise Electric work every day to make your home safe, as well as to help you to make your property as energy efficient as possible. If you have any questions, repairs, or need an inspection, call us today.
