There are several ways homeowners can cut down electricity cost in their homes. As a homeowner, the very first step to take in the process of cutting down electricity bills is to find out and take stock of of where you use the most energy in your home
Water Heaters
Water heaters are typically large energy consumers, and experts suggest that lowering the temperature on your water heater from 140°F to 120°F can reduce electricity cost by 4-22% annually. This way, homeowners can cut down electricity cost in their homes.
Also, washing clothes with cold water can cut cost, since about 90% of the electricity consumed by the washing machine is used to heat the water. I bet you didn’t take note of this before!
Appliances
For a typical home, appliances consume at least 10% of the electricity. Does this mean we stop using appliances? Absolutely not! However, there’s a better and more efficient way appliances can be connected without consuming so much electricity. Energy vampires like phone chargers, computers, coffee makers, electric kettles should always be unplugged when not in use. The best solution is to connect all gadgets to a power strip as it is easy to unplug everything at once, and a smart power strip automatically cuts power to devices that are in standby mode. If you are diligent, you can cut your standby power supply by 30%. Also, know that energy efficient appliances may cost more upfront, but will save you money in the long run. I bet you, this is one smart ways homeowners can cut down electricity cost in their homes.
Lighting
When it comes to using bulbs at home, it is much more advisable to switch to LED bulbs which lasts much longer and are 90% more efficient than traditional bulbs. Replacing your 5 most used lights with Energy Star approved LED bulbs can save you a whole lot at the end of the year!
Buy Energy Star Appliances
When you shop for appliances, ensure to look out for the Energy Star label. It means the appliance meets certain energy efficiency guidelines. Just replacing an old refrigerator with a new Energy Star model can save you thousands of cash every year!
Turn on the Air Conditioner early
Roughly half of an average home’s annual energy bill is spent on heating and cooling of minate phantom loads.
If you have an air conditioner, try to use it only on really hot or humid days, and if you expect a hot day, pre-empt the heat rather than waiting until your home is already hot. (Similarly, start heating early when expecting a cold day.)