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| 10 Ways to Save on Your Electric Bill |
One of the easiest ways to cut spending is to reduce your electricity usage. Using less energy will not only save you money, it will also help keep the environment clean. Replacing old appliances with Energy Star-qualified products could even earn you discounts on your home insurance rate!
With these ten energy-saving tips at your disposal, cutting electricity costs can be a cinch.
1. Schedule an HVAC Inspection
A certified technician can check your heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems for optimal efficiency. Simple problems like an old filter or unsealed duct can reduce overall energy efficiency by up to 20 percent. Inspections run as high as $100, but savings on your electricity bill can easily make up the difference. Making your home Energy Star-efficient could even land you discounts on your home insurance policy. Check with your insurer for details.
2. Air Conditioner - How Big is Too Big?
When shopping for a heater or air conditioner, carefully assess how powerful a unit you need. Following Energy Star guidelines can help you maximize efficiency. Not only will a bigger unit will cost you more in initial purchase price, it will put a strain on your monthly electricity costs.
3. Change Air Filters Regularly
Whether you have central air conditioning or a window unit, the air filters should be cleaned or replaced every 30 days. Dirt, dust and other airborne grime collect in air filters, hindering air flow and reducing efficiency.
4. Program the Thermostat
Why waste money heating or cooling your home while you’re away at work? Setting your thermostat just a degree or two off during the day can reduce cooling costs by up to 10%.
5. Opt for CFLs
Compact florescent light bulbs (CFLs) use 75 percent less energy than conventional bulbs and give off 70 percent less heat. Not only will CFLs keep electricity costs low, they’ll last longer too.
6. Shop Suppliers
If possible, shop around for a different energy provider. Not all energy providers charge the same rate, and you may be able to land discounts for switching. Switching could save you as much as 20 percent on your electricity bill.
7. Lock in Your Price
Contact your utility company about a fixed-bill plan, which charges the same amount every month for a set timeframe.
8. Consider a Time-of-Use Plan
If you’re out of the house most of the day, you may benefit from a time-of-use plan. Time-of-use plans cost more during peak-hours (late morning and afternoon), but make energy consumption more affordable during off-peak hours (evening to early morning). Depending on your usage schedule, you could save a bundle with this plan.
9. Seal Your Home
Air can leak through cracks along door and window frames. Caulk and weather-stripping needed to plug these holes can cost as little as $10, and could save you substantially more in the long run. You’ll keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, so you’ll enjoy savings all year round!
10. Use Fans
When you just need a little cooling off, try using a fan instead of the air conditioning. They use a ton less electricity, and can cool you off just as well. Just remember to turn it off before you leave the room.
Find Additional Savings By Shopping Around for Home Insurance
If you’re looking for more substantial savings, consider shopping around for a more affordable home insurance policy.