[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22″][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”3.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”]If you dread opening your electric bill due to the high costs every month, you need to know that there are steps that you can take to help lower your electric bill each month. Here are 7 things that you should do to help to get electric bill savings.
1. Replacing your Heating and Air System
Your heating and air system will draw a lot of power, but there are things that you can do to ensure that it is as efficient as possible. If your unit is over 10 years old, you should consider replacing it. Units over 10 years old are no longer efficient and will draw a lot of power. They will need to work harder to cool or heat your home. A new unit will be of high efficiency and not use as much power.
2. Changing your Light Bulbs
Traditional light bulbs can use up a ton of energy. Fluorescent bulbs will last a lot longer than traditional bulbs. These bulbs can last five to seven years. Another benefit of using fluorescent bulbs is that they use a lot fewer kilowatts to run. For example, a fluorescent bulb can put out 100 watts of light, while only using 23 kilowatts of power.
3. Installing a Programmable Thermostat
If you have a traditional thermostat, you should consider switching it out to a programmable one. A traditional thermostat will keep your house at the same temperature no matter if you are at home or not. You do not need to waste all that energy when you are not home. With a programmable thermostat, you can program what the temperature should be when you are not home. You can set the thermostat so that it does not run much when you are out. This will help you to save money each month on your utility bills.
4. Use Cold Water to Wash
A great way to save on your electric bill is to use cold water when you wash your clothes. When you use your hot water, it calls for the hot water heater to be used, which increases your electric consumption. Washing in cold allows you to not use your hot water heater, saving you money.
5. Unplug Electronics and Appliances
You might think that just because an electronic or appliance is not in use, that it does not use any power. However, most appliances and electronics have lights or clocks that require full power. Even when they are turned off, they are using up some of your power. It is a good idea to always unplug electronics and appliances when they are not in use.
6. Energy Audits
One of the best ways that you can ensure that you are doing everything to have electric bill savings is to get an energy audit. An energy audit will take a look at your appliances, heating and cooling, hot water heater, and everything in your home that uses electricity. You will be able to see where you are using the most power and learn how to curb that usage.
Doing the above tips can help you to have a lower electric bill each month. Remember to check on all of your appliances, check your heating and air conditioning as well as consider getting a professional energy audit.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
