7 Easy Ways to Cut Energy Costs

The average homeowner spends $1,368 per year on electricity and 35% of that power used is actually wasted. Today is National Cut Your Energy Costs Day (Jan. 10) and to celebrate, we put together some simple steps you can take to help cut your energy costs.

1.     HOT WATER

Hot water is a big energy user. The U.S. Department of Energy also recommends keeping your hot water heater’s thermostat set at 120 degrees. Anything higher is unnecessary and water that hot can be dangerous. Every 10-degree reduction can save 3-5% off your monthly bill. You can also try:  taking cooler showers, installing low-flow shower heads and faucets, and washing your clothes with less water set at a cooler temperature.

2.     CEILING FANS

Did you know that ceiling fans have a switch that controls the directions of the blades? In the winter, flip the switch in the up position so the blades are rotating in a clockwise direction. This circulates the hot air that has risen to the ceiling down to the floor, helping you stay warm. Also, only use ceiling fans when someone is in the room.

3.     LIGHTING

Compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, LED lights will last a LOT longer and can reduce your lighting energy consumption by 90 percent! LED lights may be a little more expensive in the beginning, but they are far more cost-effective in the long run. Not only should you turn off lights when you aren’t in the room, you can also use natural light whenever possible, use bulbs with lower wattage, and install dimmers

4.     VAMPIRE ELECTRONICS

Did you know that even when electronics aren’t powered on and in use, they are still using electricity? The worst culprits are cable boxes, computers, printers, routers/modems, gaming consoles, televisions, microwaves and other appliances. Cut energy consumption by unplugging these devices when not in use, buying products that have low standby power usage, and getting ENERGY STAR appliances that are designed to rely on less power.

5.     SEAL CRACKS AND GAPS

Gaps in your windows and doors can cause unwanted heat loss. Self-stick rubber sealing, clear shrink-wrap window film, draft snakes, closing the chimney damper, thick/insulated curtains, extra attic insulation, and good old-fashioned caulk are inexpensive and easy DIY options to keep the heat in and cold air out.

6.     ENERGY AUDIT

Use ENERGY STAR’S® Home Energy Yardstick to perform a self-assessment of your home’s energy consumption. You can learn about your homes annual carbon emissions, compare your home to similar homes, and get insights on how to increase your score, lower utility bills, and improve comfort.

7.     THERMOSTAT

      Use and Cooling is the number one source of residential energy consumption, so getting a programmable thermostat is one of the best investments you can make for your home. Adjusting them by a few degrees when you’re at work, sleeping, out for the day, or away for the weekend will use less energy and can cut the cost of your electric bills by up to 10 percent!