Conserving energy is important for many reasons. Wise use of resources is important for preserving and protecting our environment. It’s also important for protecting your pocketbook from skyrocketing utility bills. Thankfully, a few wise choices and small changes in your daily routine can make a big difference in lowering your energy bill.
Energy Efficient Bulbs
If you replace the light bulbs in your home with energy efficient light bulbs, you can dramatically lower your electricity costs without any noticeable change in your lifestyle. In addition to lower utility bills, these light bulbs need to be replaced far less often than conventional ones.
In addition, some energy efficient light bulbs are brighter than conventional bulbs. This means that you can use only one bulb in a light fixture that usually requires multiple bulbs.
Turn off Appliances When Not in Use.
Develop a habit of turning off the light when you leave a room. Often, a large part of wasted utility costs is keeping all the lights in your home on at all times. Teach children and other family members to turn off the lights also.
If you’re in the habit of keeping your television on for background noise, try turning it off when it’s not in use. You may find that you enjoy the peace and quiet and your pocketbook will definitely thank you for it!
Do you leave your computer on all the time? Even a small change like turning your computer off overnight can have a positive effect on your energy bill next month. Small changes can add up to big savings without affecting your lifestyle at all.
One or the Other
Do you like to surf the web while watching television? To save money on your energy bill, try an experiment. When you’re watching television, turn the computer off. When you’re surfing the web, turn the television off. When trying to do both at the same time, your focus is limited. Plus, you’re wasting energy by trying to do both at the same time.
Also consider watching your favorite television shows online. Many of today’s most popular sitcoms and reality shows are broadcast in their entirety online one or two days after they air on television. This will keep you from splitting your focus and save on electricity if you remember to turn the TV off while you watch your favorite program online.
Regulate the Thermostat
During the hot summer months, its tempting to crank up the air conditioner so that you can cool off. The cooler temperature in your home is refreshing, but its also expensive. If you want to lower your monthly electricity bill, keep the thermostat temperature closer to the outside temperature.
In the summer, keep it a few degrees warmer than normal. In the winter, keep it a few degrees cooler. This puts less stress on the air conditioner and furnace, plus it requires less power.
New Appliances
Many modern appliances are designed to use less energy than older models. It can be more expensive upfront to buy energy efficient appliances, but the monthly savings may be worth it. Eventually, your new appliances will pay for themselves in the money you save on your utility bills.
If you’re willing to make a few small changes, you can save money on your electric bills. All it takes is a willingness to do something different and a desire for more cash in your pocket! Thankfully, you can begin to experience the benefits of your efforts on your next month’s bill.
