Tips to save money on your electricity bills
As the cost of living increases, we’re always on the lookout for ways to save money at home. Your electricity bills are one of the biggest monthly expenses after your mortgage so we’ve put together a useful list of ways you can save money on your electricity bills:
Turn off lights and electronics when not in use: This may seem obvious, but it's easy to forget to turn off lights and electronics when you're not using them. Make a habit of turning off lights, TVs, and other electronics when you leave a room.
Use energy-efficient light bulbs: LED light bulbs use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer, which can save you money in the long run.
Use natural light: During the day, open your blinds or curtains to let in natural light instead of using artificial lighting. If you have items around the windows these can obstruct natural light entering the room.
Adjust your thermostat: In the summer, set your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher when you're home and higher when you're away. In the winter, set your thermostat to 68 degrees or lower when you're home and lower when you're away. Using a programmable thermostat should help you automate this process.
Use energy-efficient appliances: Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR label, which means they meet energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Energy-efficient appliances use less energy and can save you money on your electricity bills. So check the energy consumption when purchasing new appliances, especially fridges and freezers as these are running 24 hours a day.
Seal air leaks: Air leaks around doors and windows can let in hot or cold air, which can make your HVAC system work harder and use more energy. Seal air leaks with weatherstripping or caulking.
Unplug electronics when not in use: Even when turned off, electronics can still use energy if they're plugged in. Unplug electronics when you're not using them, or use a power strip to easily turn off multiple devices at once.
By following these tips, you can save money on your electricity bills while also reducing your energy consumption and helping the environment. At a time when electricity prices are rising, this can save you a lot of money every year.
