There are several easy ways to cut down on utility bills without having to sacrifice comfort. One of the best ways is to ensure your home is well-insulated. Adding insulation to your attic, walls, basement, and crawl spaces can significantly improve the energy efficiency of your home. Well-insulated homes require less energy to heat and cool. You can also install weatherstripping around doors and windows to prevent air leaks.
Turning your thermostat up a few degrees in summer or down a few degrees in winter can result in big savings on your energy bill. The less extreme the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors, the less your HVAC system has to work. Adjust your thermostat by just two degrees to start and you can save up to 10% on energy costs over the course of a year.
Using fans and opening windows instead of turning on the AC is another easy way to cut costs in the warmer months. Run ceiling fans and portable fans to keep air circulating, which will make the room feel several degrees cooler. Only turn on the AC when the fans are no longer enough. Keep curtains and blinds closed during the day to prevent heat from entering through windows.
Turn off lights, electronics, and appliances when not in use. Things like TVs, gaming consoles, and computers draw power even when idle or on standby. Make it a habit to turn them off completely when you go to bed or leave the house. Use LED light bulbs which are up to 80% more efficient than incandescent bulbs.
Run the dishwasher and washing machine only when full to maximize efficiency. This saves energy and money. Avoid the permanent press cycle on the dryer which uses more energy. Hang clothes to air dry when possible.
Unplug phone chargers, laptops, and other devices when not in use. They draw power even when not charging, which is known as “vampire energy loss.” This can cost the average household hundreds per year in wasted electricity.
Take shorter showers to reduce hot water usage. Limit your showers to 5 minutes or less. You’ll save up to 10 gallons of water per minute. Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth and washing dishes. Fix any leaky faucets which can waste gallons of water per day.
Re-evaluate your utility plans and see if there are more affordable options available. Many companies offer budget-friendly plans for low-income customers and those looking to save money. See if you qualify for any utility assistance programs in your area. Making some simple changes to your daily habits and being more mindful of energy usage can add up to big savings on your utility bills over time without sacrificing comfort.