Energy bills can count for a lot of your living budget. So, it’s a great place to think about saving if you want to reduce the costs of running your home. And it’s easier than you’d think. There are instant changes you can make that will make a big difference to your monthly bill. This guide will show you how to save money on your energy bills.
Check the seals in your house
Your house is full of seals that could be letting warm air out. Check the seals around your windows and doors and see if you can identify any leaks. Adding new seals could make your house much easier to warm (or cool). Also check the seals around your refrigerator and freezer to make sure the cold air isn’t seeping out.
Install a smart thermostat
Smart thermostats make your heating more efficient. They can be set to heat just the rooms you’re in, they learn how long it takes to heat your home, and they can be controlled by your phone. All of that means that less energy is being wasted, which means big savings for your wallet.
Turn down your thermostat
Okay, it might seem obvious that turning your thermostat will reduce your energy bill. But did you know that turning it down a couple of degrees could make a big difference? It’s hard to find the perfect temperature in your home, but don’t underestimate how much heating costs.
Buy efficient appliances
Owned your washing machine for 20 years? You might be proud that it has lasted that long but it could be cheaper to buy a new one. Brand new appliances (with high energy ratings) will reduce your energy bills dramatically. Get down to your local electrical shop and replace your old appliances with some more efficient ones.
Wash clothes at a lower temperature
Small changes – like washing your clothes at a lower temperature – can make big differences to your energy bill. You should also make sure that each washing load is completely packed. Running an electricity-guzzling appliance like a washing machine is expensive, so don’t waste it.
Take shorter showers
Like to spend 20-plus minutes in the shower every morning? Well, if you’re serious about saving on your energy, you should cut that time down as much as possible. Shorter showers will make a big difference to your yearly energy costs. You should also consider investing in a more efficient shower head.
Swap out your lightbulbs
Lightbulbs can be some of the biggest energy-wasting appliances in the home. Swapping from traditional light bulbs to LED bulbs can cut your energy usage by up to $75 a year. Look out for the bulbs with an Energy Star label. Also, think about installing dimmer switches to give you control over the brightness (and energy output).
Be smarter about water
Better water usage is a great way to save on your energy bills in general. Washing the dishes without running the faucet can make a big difference. So can collecting rainwater for the plants. Every time you use water, consider if you could use less.