Are you looking for easy ways to make a significant impact on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint? Even the smallest changes in your daily habits can add up to big savings for both your wallet and the planet! Here are five of our top tips for reducing your energy consumption and saving big on your energy bills.
Making a small adjustment to what your thermostat is normally set at could save you a lot of cash and carbon. Reducing your thermostat back by just 3 degrees could save you 5% on your energy bills, and turning it back 7-10 degrees from its normal setting for just 8 hours a day could save you as much as 10% a year!
Have you ever heard of phantom power? Phantom power is the energy your devices use when they’re plugged in, but not in use. Think laptops, gaming consoles, TVs, kitchen appliances, and even alarm clocks. Up to 75% of the electricity these devices consume is from when they’re not even in use, which can add up to nearly 10% of your home’s energy costs. To avoid the extra cost, start unplugging TVs, phone and laptop chargers, and small kitchen appliances like toasters and microwaves when not in use.
The next time you do laundry or run your dishwasher, try to do it during the early morning or late-night hours, preferably outside the peak energy consumption times of 12-8 pm EST. Using major appliances during these off-peak hours not only helps lower your energy bills but also reduces the strain on the electrical grid, contributing to a more stable and sustainable energy system.
Lighting is an essential part of any home, and switching to LED bulbs is an easy and effective way to save energy. LED bulbs are not only more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent or fluorescent bulbs but also last much longer. They consume up to 80% less energy, which translates to significant cost savings over time – you could save up to $4,000 over the next 20 years just by making this simple swap!
Ditch the energy-hungry dryer and opt for line drying your laundry whenever possible. Not only will this save energy, but it will also extend the life of your clothes and reduce the wear and tear caused by machine drying. Plus, the average household can save up to $100 annually by opting for line drying!