You can save money on energy and reduce your bill with a few simple steps. Then, taking a few drastic changes can save you more in the long term.
Analyzing your energy consumption and costs is the first step. Then, take a good look at our suggestions to know which one fits your needs.
How to Save Money on Your Energy Bill?
The average cost of utilities per month in the US is around $580-$615 according to research conducted by move.org.
The cost of utilities includes electricity, natural gas, water, sewer, internet, and streaming services. However, the cost of electricity remains the most expensive input at an average of $117.
Relocating to a state with lower utility prices is one option if you can afford it at all. For instance, Nevada is way cheaper than California. However, not everyone can use that option as it comes with other considerations.
Here are our top 10 tips for you to save on your energy bill.
1. Conduct a Home Energy Audit
Evaluating your energy consumption and efficiency level should be your first step to saving on energy costs.
A professional service provider can conduct a thorough home energy audit for you. It must include an assessment of your home electricity usage, a review of wiring, insulation, vehicle fuel efficiency, water usage, and so on.
Analyzing your energy usage by yourself is also helpful. However, take measured actions so that you can make informed decisions later on.
Conduct an energy consumption audit to be aware of where your money is slipping away.
2. Home Design Improvements
This tip is essential for new homebuyers and for those who can tweak their home designs a bit. A few improvements in your structural home design can save you a lot in the total energy cost.
First, check the landscaping of your main structure and garden. It can help you fetch some shade and also natural windbreaks. Adjusting your house according to weather conditions can provide extra or less sun exposure.
Similarly, you can plan air ventilation and snowfall prevention measures to reduce your air cooling and heating needs respectively.
3. Home Weatherization
Home insulation and air sealing are two of the most important projects you can take after home design adjustments. Unlike designing changes, you can perform home weatherization for a new or old house alike.
Air Sealing
Repairing your house walls, doors, and windows can save you a handsome amount on your cooling and heating costs alike.
Hiring a professional to seal air leaks around your house can improve your energy conservation efforts.
House Insulation
Different house structures require different insulation levels. Ask an expert to help you apply the right insulation for effective heat flow in your house.
Insulation helps you keep the internal temperature under control resulting in more energy savings in the long run.
4. Evaluate Your Home Heating and Cooling Methods
Adjusting your heating and cooling methods can save you enormous energy costs as well. In practice, most of the household energy costs go towards house cooling and heating appliances.
Adjust your thermostats to a suitable temperature. Add smart and adjustable thermostat devices to your inventory so that you don’t have to do it manually each time.
Similarly, using alternative devices for heating and cooling like a heat pump can save you electricity consumption. Again, consulting a professional can help you choose the right devices and save on energy consumption.
5. Save Electricity by Using Smart and Efficient Devices
One of the best methods to save on energy costs is to start using smart and energy-efficient home appliances.
Whenever you buy a new home appliance, review its energy efficiency. Also, replacing older devices with newer and more efficient devices can save energy consumption.
For instance, utilizing more LED bulbs can reduce electricity consumption. Similarly, using smart electricity meters and participating in time-based electricity cost programs can also help you save on electricity costs.
Apart from using energy efficient devices, you can reduce electricity consumption by unplugging devices when not in use. Consider using extension cords with switches to make the task easier.
6. Switch to Electric Vehicles
Switching from gasoline to electric engines is a greener and smarter option anyway. However, utilizing this option the right way can save you on total energy consumption.
Use fast DC adapters to charge your battery vehicle faster. Also, compare electric vehicle charging points and rates.
Maintaining and driving your electric vehicle can help you save more in the long run.
7. Financial Assistance and Incentives
Although you can use conventional financing and loan options to fund your energy-efficient projects, there are specialized lenders for these projects
The U.S. Department of Energy has a special house weatherization Assistance Program that offers help to low-income households to improve energy efficiency
Similarly, an Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) can provide you with better rates when spending money on your house improvements for energy-saving plans.
You can also take advantage of tax rebates and credits when spending on renewable energy and energy-efficient projects.
8. Turn to Renewable Energy Sources
Shifting to renewable energy is not an easy task. For instance, installing a wind turbine is a costly project that can only be done at the community level.
Yet there are ways to reduce dependency on conventional electricity consumption methods. For instance, utilities are providing green and renewable electricity generated from solar panels, wind turbines, and biomass.
You can compare electricity rates from these providers and choose the right option for you. If you afford it, install solar panels at your home as well.
Solar panels can help you reduce electricity consumption from utility providers. That in turn will greatly reduce your electricity bill.
You can also choose selective appliances like a solar-powered water heater to reduce electricity consumption.
9. Reduce Water Usage
According to a research report by the Energy Information Administration (EIA) around 14% of energy consumption is for household water uses in residential areas in the US.
It means if you reduce water consumption and recycle it, you can save a significant amount on the total energy consumption each month.
Simple grey water recycling systems can be easily installed and recycled water can be used for gardening, car washing, and toilet flushing uses among others.
10. Change Your Energy Consumption Habits
Finally, it takes a comprehensive approach to saving on your energy consumption. As much as you focus on energy-efficient appliances, you should deliver by changing your habits as well.
For instance, using cold water in washing machines or having a quick shower can save you electricity and water costs. A cohesive effort from all family members can produce significant energy savings monthly and in the long run as well.
