10 Ways to Lower Your Energy Bill

In times of financial trouble, it’s even more important to do what you can to make sure your biggest asset does not become your biggest liability. Uncontrolled use of electricity, gas and water can be a big drain on your wallet. Here are some tips to help you lower your energy bills.

Invest in a good programmable thermostat. Then set your temperatures to the highest comfortable setting for the summer months and set to the lowest comfortable temperatures for the winter months.

Replace your air filters every month and keep your air vents unblocked. Proper air flow keeps your system from working too hard, costing more money.

Switch to fluorescent bulbs, especially in high usage areas. They last much longer, up to 10 years, and consume about 75% less energy. Also keep the lights off when you’re not in the room.

Turn off and unplug electronics and appliances that are not used on a daily basis. Electronic appliances still draw a small amount of energy, even when they are switched off.

Install low-flow shower heads and faucet aerators to reduce the amount of water used and the amount of hot water flowing out of your water heater. This will affect your water bill and your gas or electric bill.

Consider replacing your old air conditioning or heating system if it is 10 years of age or older. As these systems get older, they also become less efficient. At some point it will be more cost efficient to just replace the system with a newer, more efficient model.

Make sure your home is thoroughly insulated. R-5 is recommended for concrete block walls, R-11 is good for suspended frame floors and frame walls, and R-19 to R-30 is recommended for ceilings.

Adjust the temperature level on your water heater to a lower level. Reducing the water temperature will help reduce the amount of electricity or gas used, depending on the type of water heater you have.

Keep temperatures steady in your home by using ceiling fans and portable home fans. This will help to moderate temperatures by keeping air flowing throughout the home, preventing hot spots and cold spots, which your air conditioning/heating system will try to compensate for.

Use window blinds/curtains and windows to control temperatures in the home. Opening blinds/curtains and windows on the side of the house where the sun is shining will let heat into the house. Opening windows on the shaded side of the home can help to cool the home.