Taking Charge Of Your Electric Bill With These 8 Hot Tips

Has it ever come to your attention that air-conditioning and heating systems actually suck up most of the electricity that you pay monthly? Whether you rent or own your home, there are ways to cut your electric bills and be able to save in the process –

It’s Time to Love Plants

One of the most effective ways to ward off heat is to install green, leafy plants or small, potted trees inside your home. Doing this will not just improve the look of your home but also aid in reducing the amount of heat that goes into your home during the summer.

Cover Up Those Windows

To keep your home from heating up, be sure to close your windows, curtains, and blinds. It is crucial to cover your windows during the hottest times of the day. You may also install outdoor awnings, window films, solar screens, or any materials that can deflect solar energy.

Raise the Thermostat

When it is getting warm, did you know that every thermostat degree that goes above 78 can actually reduce your cooling costs? So go ahead and put the thermostat to the highest and comfortable temperature then turn it up a few more degrees as you go to the office.

If you are not great at remembering things like adjusting the thermostat, then ask an electrician to install programmable thermostat in your home. This device automatically alters the temperature at preset periods. There are programmable thermostats that cost as little as $25. Installing such can save the average consumer approximately $180 every year.

Choose a Fan Speed

If you live in the more humid parts of the country, an effective way to reduce this humidity is to decrease your air conditioner’s internal fan speed.  If you live in a dry area, though, then just keep the fan speed at a high level. If you are not able to adjust the fan speed through the thermostat, then call a service professional right away. This expert should be able to do the job for you.

Make Use of Permanent Air Filters

It is a must to maintain your air conditioning system. Dirty air impedes air flow and can even cause the system to eat up more energy, become inefficient, and cost you a lot more money in the end.

With this, it is important to change disposable filters once every month. You have the option to switch to a permanent air filter also. This is something that you can just clean every now and then instead of throw away.

Give the Air Conditioner Some Rest

Ceiling and portable fans are inexpensive and they can cool off your home’s interiors just as effectively as some air conditioning units. Switch on these fans and cool off during the summer. Just keep in mind that they only cool people and not the air inside a room so turn them off as you leave.

Favoring the Microwave

It is best to use a microwave oven especially during the warmest seasons because they use 30% less energy when compared to a traditional oven. Microwave ovens also do not generate heat inside your kitchen.

Repair an Old Air Conditioning Unit

If there are major repairs that need to be done on your air conditioning unit then have it done by a pro right away. Consider replacing old units with the newer energy-efficient units in the market. This is not just applicable to air conditioning systems but also to other electrical appliances and devices. The energy-saving units may be more expensive but you are bound to save more money in the end. You also become Mother Earth’s best friend in the process!