There are some simple changes you can make in order to save money on your energy bills while still maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home.
While it may seem impossible, by following these ten tips you can increase the efficiency of your heating system and cut down on the amount of money you spend on your monthly utility bills.
The next time you find yourself reaching for the thermostat, consider these tips on how to save money on energy bills instead.
1) Set your thermostat
One of the easiest ways to save money on your energy costs is by adjusting your thermostat. But, it can be hard to know how hot you should set it in order to get the most bang for your buck.
The answer is that the optimal temperature is different depending on the season. Generally, you'll want to set your thermostat higher in winter and cooler in summer.
2) Lower your water heater
Turning your water heater down or off when you don't need it is a great way to save money on your energy bills. When you're not using hot water, make sure you turn the thermostat down below 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
The average energy savings by lowering your thermostat just one degree is 10% per year and can add up over time. Make sure the temperature of the cold water is set at 55 degrees Fahrenheit and that it's coming from a cold-water source like an ice box or refrigerator, not from a faucet with warm running water.
3) Use smart devices
Smart devices are a great way to track and control your energy usage. For example, smart plugs can turn off appliances when they're not in use or lights that automatically turn off after a certain time.
You can also use these devices with other features such as the Nest Thermostat which learns how you like your home temperature set and adjusts accordingly.
4) Turn off lights and plug-ins when you leave a room
A good way to save money is by turning off the lights when you leave a room. You can also turn off plug-ins when they are not in use. If possible, try and plug all of your electronics into one extension cord or power strip and then turn it off when not using them.
This will help cut down on energy usage. Keep window shades closed: It can be tempting to open your windows wide, but this will only let sunlight come inside, which in turn heats up your home unnecessarily. If it’s warm outside and you want some fresh air, just open the door instead of the window so that there is no extra heat entering your home.
5) Lower your electric bill by saving water
1. Fix leaks in your toilet and faucets by turning off the water while brushing teeth, shaving or washing hands. Turn off the water and flush when you're done.
2. Take shorter showers or take a bath instead of a shower.
3. Clean your dryer vent with a vacuum cleaner every six months, this can save you up to 10 percent in electricity costs.
4. If possible, install low-flow toilets and faucets that use less water than conventional models
5. Install low-flow shower heads
6. Seal cracks around doors and windows with caulking
7. Insulate walls
8 . Install weather stripping around doors
9 . Lower the temperature setting of your hot water heater
10 . Use fluorescent light bulbs instead of incandescent
6) Insulate your windows and doors
A great way to save money and reduce your carbon footprint is by insulating your windows and doors. Not only will this make your home more comfortable, it'll also help you save a lot of money on your energy bills.
Insulation is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to save money in the long-term. It's a smart investment that can last for decades with little maintenance or upkeep required.
To find out how much you could be saving, use the DOE's interactive Home Energy Saver calculator at energy.gov/tools/homeenergycalculator/.
7) Seal gaps with foam sealant or caulk
-If you have gaps around your doors and windows, seal them with foam sealant or caulk.
-Insulate your attic if you don't already have a good insulation system.
-Seal any holes in the walls or ceilings with foam sealant.
If there's no way for that hole to be sealed, cover it with metal and put a layer of foam over the top of it.
-Install storm windows and doors. They'll help keep heat inside during the winter and cool air outside during the summer time.
8) Wash clothes in cold water instead of hot
One way to save money and energy is by washing your clothes in cold water instead of hot. This not only saves electricity, it saves on the wear and tear of your clothes.
Washing in cold water also prevents the stiffness that comes with using hot water.
If you do want your clothes really clean, you can use a small amount of detergent in a sink full of cold water. When washing dishes by hand, rinse them off before putting them in the dishwasher to reduce dishwashing time and save energy costs.
9) Turn off the main breaker during appliance usage
Turning off the main breaker when a major appliance is in use will help save a lot of money. One way to do this is by installing a switch that can be turned on and off. This will allow the appliance to stay plugged in, but also enable you to turn it off when not needed.
Plus, if you have an electric stove and oven, be sure they are both turned off before leaving home or going out for long periods of time.
10) Dress warmly when you need heat in winter (or cool in summer).
Here's a good way to save money: dress warmly when you need heat in winter (or cool in summer). You'll find that you don't need as much heating or cooling if your body isn't working overtime.
Stay warm by wearing layers, using blankets and quilts, and snuggling up with loved ones. Keep your home at a comfortable temperature - turn up the thermostat when you're away for an extended period of time.
Unplug devices like TVs, microwaves, and lamps when not in use - these types of electronics can consume 40% of your energy usage without producing any heat! If possible, switch out incandescent bulbs for CFLs or LEDs - they use 20% less power!
11) Window Blinds
Consider investing in window blinds remote control capabilities. These allow you to easily adjust your blinds throughout the day to maximize natural light without compromising on privacy or energy efficiency. With remote control blinds, you can quickly lower them during the hottest parts of the day to block out excess sunlight and reduce cooling costs. This simple upgrade can contribute significantly to saving on your energy bills by optimizing the use of natural light and maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature throughout the year.