Worried about your rising electricity bill? You’re not alone. While some energy consumption is unavoidable, there are many simple electrical tips and smart upgrades that can dramatically reduce your energy use and save you money. From no-cost habits to savvy investments, here’s a guide to making your home more energy-efficient.
Simple, No-Cost Tips for Immediate Savings
The quickest way to start saving is by changing your daily habits. These simple adjustments cost nothing and can start lowering your bill today.
- Turn Down Your Thermostat: Heating and cooling are the biggest energy hogs in most homes, accounting for nearly half of your energy bill. Adjusting your thermostat by just a few degrees—up in the summer, down in the winter—can lead to significant savings. In the summer, setting your AC to 78°F or higher and using fans can make a room feel up to 4-6° cooler.
- Eliminate “Phantom” Energy Use: Even when turned off, many electronics like TVs, computers, and phone chargers still draw power. This “phantom load” can account for up to 10% of a home’s energy use. The solution is simple: unplug devices when they’re not in use, or use a power strip and flip the switch to cut off power completely.
- Run Full Loads: Wait until your dishwasher and washing machine are completely full before running them. These appliances use the same amount of water and energy regardless of the size of the load. For your laundry, washing in cold water can save you an estimated $60 annually.
- Cook Smarter: A microwave uses significantly less energy than a conventional oven. When you do use your oven, avoid opening the door repeatedly, as this lets out hot air and forces the appliance to work harder.
Smart Upgrades That Pay for Themselves
If you’re ready to make a long-term investment in your home, these electrical and energy-efficient upgrades offer substantial savings over time.
- Energy-Efficient Upgrades & Tax Credits: Many homeowners can now qualify for federal tax credits for making energy-efficient improvements. Under the Inflation Reduction Act, you may be eligible for a tax credit of up to 30% on qualified expenses, including new heat pumps, insulation, and energy-efficient windows, with a maximum credit of up to $3,200 annually.
- Upgrade Your Lighting: Lighting accounts for about 15% of an average home’s electricity use, making it one of the fastest and most impactful areas for an upgrade.
- Switch to LED Bulbs: This is the easiest and most cost-effective upgrade. ENERGY STAR®-certified LED bulbs use up to 90% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. This can save an average household up to $225 per year.
- Install Smart Lighting Controls: For even more savings, consider installing motion sensors, timers, and dimmers. Motion sensors can automatically turn lights off when a room is empty, while timers and dimmers allow you to use just the right amount of light you need.
- Install a Smart Thermostat: A smart thermostat can automatically adjust your home’s temperature based on your schedule and can be programmed to save energy while you’re away. An ENERGY STAR-certified smart thermostat can save an average household over $50 a year on heating and cooling bills.
By combining simple daily habits with strategic energy-efficient upgrades, you can take control of your electricity consumption and see a significant and lasting reduction in your monthly bill.
From a simple bulb replacement to a full electrical panel upgrade, making your home more energy efficient can be a safe and rewarding experience. For larger projects, the best way to ensure the job is done correctly and up to code is to work with a licensed professional. Contact the professionals at T.A.P. Electric for all your electrical needs, and let us help you start saving money and energy today.
