The average American spends about $200 monthly and up to $6,888 annually on utility bills. While this cost can vary depending on energy use, home size, location, and other factors, handling rising utility bills can be overwhelming for many homeowners.
Luckily, there are different energy-saving strategies that you can adopt to reduce your utility costs. Here are 13 clever ways to reduce your monthly utility bills.
1. Get a Professional Energy Audit
Before reducing your energy bills, you should conduct an energy audit to determine how and where you’re consuming the most energy. Identifying areas of wastage, such as poor insulation, air leaks, or energy-inefficient appliances, will help you take the necessary steps. A professional energy auditor can perform the audit.
2. Invest in a Smart Thermostat
Although conventional thermostats still get the work done, they are outdated and consume lots of energy. Invest in a smart, programmable thermostat that can adjust temperatures when you’re asleep or out of your house.
3. Get Energy-Efficient Appliances
It’s time to ditch your old dishwasher, fridge, dryer, or heating/cooling system. Most of your appliances consume a lot of energy, which could cost you hundreds of dollars annually in utility bills. Consider switching to energy-star-rated appliances to cut down on your monthly electricity bills. You can find a list of energy-efficient appliances here.
4. Set aside a Day for Energy-Intensive Tasks
Blending juice, ironing, or using the washing machine daily can be energy intensive and lead to high bills. You can reduce these costs by setting aside a day for energy-intensive tasks. For example, you can schedule all ironing tasks for a Tuesday or prep your weekly juices every Sunday.
5. Switch to Energy-Saving Bulbs
Incandescent and halogen bulbs consume a lot of energy. Switching to LED light bulbs can save you hundreds of dollars annually. Research shows that LEDs use less than 80% energy compared to traditional incandescents.
6. Air Dry Your Clothes and Dishes
Hanging your clothes out to air dry instead of using the dryer can help you reduce your energy costs. This method is not only energy-efficient but also extends the life of your clothes.
The same applies to letting your dishes dry out on the rack.
7. Consider Using a Fan Instead of an Air Conditioner
You don’t need to have your AC on year-round when you can switch to ceiling fans. A fan is a cheaper way to stay cool and can save up to 15% on your utility bill.
8. Service Your HVAC
Your heating and cooling systems continuously keep your home warm or cool. Just like cars, these units must be serviced regularly to improve efficiency. Having a professional service your HVAC system annually can lower utility bills and increase unit efficiency.
9. Clean or Replace Furnace and HVAC Filters
Simple things like a dirty or worn-out air filter can lead to high utility bills. Set a reminder to replace your HVAC filter every 30 days. That will lead to efficient heating and cooling, further lowering energy bills.
10. Consider Installing Solar Panels
Installing a solar panel is an excellent way to reduce your energy costs. Although the initial investment is expensive, the long-term benefits outweigh these expenses. Investing in solar also safeguards you against future rate increases or inflation. Do your homework and consult professionals on the installation process and cost if you’re considering solar energy as a long-term energy alternative.
11. Get Smart Power Strips
Most people are unaware that plugged electronics consume a lot of energy even when they’re turned off. You can lower these costs by plugging your chargers, laptops, or TVs into smart power trips and unplugging them when not in use.
12. Weatherstrip Your Windows and Doors
Weatherstripping your doors and windows can prevent air leaks that mostly cause energy waste. Caulking and weatherstripping will seal these leaks and help keep the temperatures at optimum levels without needing healing or cooling systems.
13. Insulate Your Home
Adding or improving insulation in your home can deflect heat in the summer and keep you warm during winter.
Implementing some of our tips above can help you save hundreds of dollars on your utility bills annually. Although these changes may seem insignificant initially, they can quickly add up to energy savings.
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