With energy costs rising across the globe, many people are starting to feel the pinch in their monthly budgets. Across the US, some people have seen energy costs rise over twenty percent in the past year.
Luckily, there are some very simple things that everyone can do to tame their high electric bill. We’ve put together a quick guide to the things you can do to fight the rising cost of power. Read on to learn more!
Install Solar Panels
Solar panels can provide clean, renewable energy that isn’t dependent on the electrical company. If you live in the right area, you can receive enough sunlight to power your home year-round.
Solar power can even make you money. Most home solar panel systems are connected to the electrical grid. If you produce more power than your home consumes, you will actually get credit from the electrical company for providing more energy!
If you’re interested in installing solar panels on your home, be sure to check your local and state regulations. Some states also offer tax credits for installing solar. Contact a reliable solar company for more information.
Be Smart With Appliances
Did you know that some appliances consume electricity, even if they’re not powered on? This is called a “phantom load,” and it could be costing you a high electric bill.
Put appliances such as coffee pots, toasters, microwaves, and your entertainment center on a power strip. That way, you can turn everything off with one switch when you’re not using it.
Load Up Your Fridge and Dishwasher
Did you know that your refrigerator will actually cool food more efficiently when it’s full? Keeping your fridge from running too empty will actually help save you money in the long run. Just don’t pack it too full!
The same idea applies to your dishwasher. Using a dishwasher instead of hand-washing dishes saves you a lot of water and energy (used to heat the water). By making sure your dishwasher is full every time, you don’t need to run it as often.
Get Your Laundry in Line
Make sure that your dryer vent is free of lint. This can cause it to run less efficiently, requiring more power to function properly.
If you can, consider air-drying clothes, sheets, and towels during warmer months. Also, wash your clothes in cold water. Only sheets and towels need to be washed with hot water.
Check Your Lights
If you’re still running fluorescent or incandescent bulbs, you may want to consider making the switch to LED.
Not only are LED bulbs far more energy-efficient, but they last much longer as well. LED lights can save you up to 80 percent of your lighting costs over your lifetime.
Taming Your High Electric Bill
While you may be feeling the sting of rising costs and a high electric bill, there are many small steps you can take to reduce your costs. Take a quick survey of your home, and you’ll likely find several things on this list to chip away at your monthly bill!
For more money-smart ideas and financial tips, be sure to check out the “Finance” portion of our blog!
