8 Easy Ways to Save on Your Electricity Bill
Saving money on your electricity bill doesn't mean skimping on heat or air conditioning, sitting around in the dark, and hanging all your clothes to dry. But there are a few simple adjustments you can make to help keep your monthly bill down. Here we reveal eight ways to save money on your utility bill.
1. Use fans sparingly
Try not to use bath, kitchen and other ventilating fans if you don't have to. Did you know you can blow away an entire houseful of heat in just three hours using ventilating fans? If you must use one, turn it off as soon as the job is complete.
2. Keep drapes open during the day
This might be obvious, but make sure you keep all your drapes and shades open during daylight hours. It allows the sunlight to help assist in warming your home. And don't forget to close them at night-it helps buffer the cold air.
3. Check for air leaks
Test your windows and doors for tightness-if you can feel a draft, they aren't tight enough. Invest in weather stripping and caulk if needed. It won't cost much and can save you upwards of 10 percent or more in annual costs. And don't forget to check your attic access door. If it's not well insulated, you're wasting money to heat your attic.
4. Don't chill out in front of your refrigerator or freezer
Only open the fridge or freezer door when necessary. Don't hem and haw over what to eat with the door open. You're letting all the cold air escape and you'll just end up paying to get it cold again.
5. Use cold water when rinsing dishes
Scrape and rinse your dishes with cold water before putting them in the dishwasher. And if you can, skip using the dishwasher's pre-rinse cycle. You will have already done that!
6. Don't run water while shaving
If you leave the water running while you shave your legs, you're wasting hot water and the energy used to heat it. Instead, rinse your blade in a small shower-safe bowl of water.
7. Invest in three-way lamps
When it's time to buy new lamps, look into three-way versions, which allow for bright, medium, and dim light. Then you can keep the lighting levels on par with the room and situation, which can help save energy and electricity. Only use the high switches for reading or other events that require bright light.
8. Use timers on outdoor lights
No need to use outdoor lights when the sun is out. Instead, set timers to coincide with sunset and sunrise. And if don't absolutely need an area lit all night long, try a motion-activated light.
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