How to Save Energy & Reduce Home Electric Costs

Published on: February 29, 2012

If the cost of electricity is getting you down, cheer up: There’s a lot you can do to lower costs and save money. By putting a few basic tips to work, you can enjoy lower electricity bills without having to sacrifice your living standards. It’s amazing what a few small changes can do when it comes to electricity costs, and it’s well within your power to pick up a few new habits. Look below to learn about a few of the very best ways to use less electricity and enjoy lower electric bills.

Be Smart about Lighting

By using the lights in your home effectively, you can dramatically lower your overall electricity usage. First, you should invest in compact fluorescent lamps or CFLs. They last longer than traditional light bulbs and use far less electricity. The initial cost is a little higher, but the long-term savings can be considerable.

After investing in CFLs and using them throughout the house, get into the habit of turning off lights whenever they’re not in use. Make sure to get the whole family in on the act. If necessary, post friendly reminder notes near light switches to encourage people to turn lights off before leaving the room.

Another way to reduce your reliance on electric lighting is by letting in as much natural daylight as possible. During the day, keep blinds and curtains open. You might even want to consider having skylights installed in your home.

Insulate Properly

Heating and cooling a home requires a tremendous amount of electricity. Once the air is heated or cooled, everything should be done to keep it from escaping from the home. If it gets out, your furnace or air-conditioning unit has to work that much harder. Make sure your attic has adequate amounts of insulation. If possible, invest in energy-efficient windows and doors. Take a look at the existing weather stripping on your windows and doors and replace it as needed. If you can’t afford to upgrade your windows, buy plastic insulation kits and seal them. This will keep out drafts and prevent heated or cooled air from escaping.

Use Appliances Effectively

The appliances in your home require electricity to function, so it’s smart to use them as effectively as possible. Many modern appliances are Energy Star certified, which means that they are energy efficient. When the time to replace an old appliance rolls around, replace it with an energy-efficient model. Another quick tip is to unplug things like TVs, computers and phone chargers when they’re not in use. They continue to use electricity when they’re plugged in, even if they’re not turned on or actively being used.

Specific tips about various appliances include:

Water Heater – Turn down the temperature of your water heater. Keep it at 120 degrees for best results.
Dishwasher – Only run the dishwasher when it’s full, and avoid using hot-water settings.
Washing Machine – Only run the washing machine when it’s full. Only use cold water.
Dryer – Clean the dryer’s lint trap before every use. This allows it to operate more efficiently. Use a clothesline when the weather is nice.
Toaster Ovens, Microwaves and Slow Cookers – Use these appliances instead of the regular oven whenever possible. They heat up more quickly, work faster and use less electricity.

Be Smart about Electricity

In addition to the tips outlined above, there are a few more things you can do to keep your electric costs as low as possible. Invest in a nice electric blanket or a heated mattress pad and use them during the winter. An electric space heater can also be used to keep small areas warm. These things use less electricity than furnaces and heating registers. If possible, invest in a programmable thermostat for your home and set it to drop to a lower temperature at night.

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to slash your home electricity bills. One other great way to do so is by switching to Plymouth Energy. With Plymouth Energy, you’ll enjoy lower rates and superior service. Many other customers in your area have already made the switch, and they’re already enjoying lower home electric costs. Joining them is easy. Just make the switch to Plymouth Energy today.