Your monthly electric bill may be eye-popping, but there are simple and cost-effective ways to lower energy costs. Here’s a look at how to save money on your energy bill.
Reduce Your AC Usage
You can keep a comfortable climate in your home while lowering energy costs, whether on your Centerpoint energy bill or natural gas costs. One key tip is to make sure your heating and air conditioning systems are cleaned out, which helps them work more efficiently. That means keeping track of when you need to replace filters and clearing away any soot or dust buildup. You can also schedule an appointment to have a technician tune-up your system to maximize its performance.
Easy Ways to Lower Your Electric Bill
A simple tip for how to save on your energy bill is to keep your blinds and window curtains open during the winter months to allow warming sunlight into your home and then close them on hot days to help keep the indoor air cool. A ceiling fan can also lower the burden on your air conditioning system. Your water heater likely uses quite a bit of energy, but if you wash clothes in cold water, you can easily cut energy costs. And rather than putting laundry in the dryer, simply let your clothes air dry by hanging them on a rack or out in the sunshine if you have a clothesline.
What is an Energy Vampire?
Did you know that appliances and electronics use power when they’re plugged in, even when they’re not being used? “Energy Vampires” are appliances that drain tons of electricity even when they’re off or are in rest mode. A quick way to stave off energy vampires is to use a power strip or two. That way, you can deactivate devices in an instant without having to unplug them one by one.
What is the Energy Star Program?
The EPA and DOE conceived the energy star system to differentiate power-saving appliances from the aforementioned energy vampires. You may not want to replace your appliances with those that are Energy Star rated — until you discover how much energy you save with these more efficient refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines. You’ll also see energy savings if you install light fixtures with the Energy Star certification.
Is Insulating Your House Worth It?
You may be surprised at how much cool air during the summer and warm air in the winter escapes through the edges of windows and doors. Take the time to seal any leaks. This doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. You can buy wallet-friendly caulk and weather-stripping that does the job and can help shave dollars off your monthly energy costs. You can also buy an inexpensive window insulation kit that creates a tight seal. Another easy way to make your home more energy efficient is to add insulation to your attic crawl spaces and basement walls as well as around any light fixtures that are recessed.
