Electricity is a form of energy that we take for granted until the bill arrives. Once we see how many kilowatts are powering the many items in our home, it can be quite earth-shattering.
Don’t you wish you could reduce your energy bill without sacrificing too much?
There are ways you can lower your energy bill without forgoing things you like or need, such as television, heating and air conditioning, or other necessities you can’t live without.
Here’s what’s costing you money and how to bring your energy bills down.
Phantom Energy
One of the most significant ways you’re probably losing money is from phantom energy use in the home. This is the type of energy that is used when items that don’t necessarily need to be plugged in are plugged in and turned off but are still using energy.
A study by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) revealed that $19 billion, or approximately $165 per U.S. household, is wasted on phantom energy annually.
This phantom energy waste includes charging phones, keeping computers and other electronics plugged in, and leaving microwaves and a host of other appliances on, even if they are in “energy-saving” mode.
Not Using Smart Devices
Another way you may be wasting money is by not using smart devices. Smart electronics and appliances can be controlled remotely by using your smartphone. So, if you forgot to turn off the lights or have your thermostat running at a high temperature, you can use your smartphone to make adjustments instead of wasting energy.
Continuing to Use Old Appliances
One more surefire way you’re throwing money out the door is by continuing to use old appliances. Not only are old appliances using more electricity, but because they most likely aren’t Energy Star-rated appliances, they are probably using significantly more energy.
Continuing to use old appliances instead of making an upgrade to newer, more energy-efficient ones is a waste of electricity.
Not Changing Filters Regularly
If you see your energy bill getting higher month to month, it may be because you’re not changing your filters regularly. Dirty filters make your HVAC system work harder than it should, which can increase your energy bill.
It is recommended that you change out your filters every three months. However, if you have pets or you have a small home with plenty of people in it, your filters are probably collecting more dirt. Therefore, you may have to change your filters once a month.
Failing to Switch to LED Bulbs
Are you still using incandescent light bulbs? These types of bulbs emit a lot of heat and use much more electricity than LED bulbs, which can drive your energy bills up. Switching over to LED bulbs will use less energy and save more money on your bills.
Keeping Your Water Heater High
If you’re looking for ways to cut back on wasted electricity, you may want to check your water heating settings. Many people love extremely warm showers and like to set their water heater to 140 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
Unfortunately, this can drive your energy bill up several hundred dollars per year. Maintaining a temperature of about 120 degrees will allow you to enjoy a comfortable shower and ensure clean clothing and dishes without breaking the bank.
Failing to Insulate Your Attic
If your money is going through the roof literally, it’s probably because you don’t have a properly insulated attic. Insulation is a thermal barrier that keeps homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
When there is improper or no insulation in the attic of the house, the heat from the sun can make the home hotter than it should be. Likewise, the cold air of winter can make the home’s interior colder than it should be.
Fast, Safe Electrical Services in Wayne & Beyond
From panel upgrades and code-safe rewiring to EV charger installs and backup generators, our licensed Wayne electricians handle it all—fast and safely. We serve homes and businesses across Southeast Michigan with upfront pricing, clean workmanship, and guaranteed results. Need help today? Call Bratcher Electric for a Free Consultation