4 Ways to Save Money on Your Electric Bill This Summer
Tuesday, April 26, 2016, 6:00 AM | Leave Comment
There are several steps that you can take to cut your summer’s utility bill. Even the smallest steps can make a significant difference, particularly when all of them are implemented.
What are the top four that you can you use?
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Stop Energy Drains
It is common sense to turn off lights when you leave a room or to turn off the television when no one is watching. However, many other devices in your home that are still using electricity even if they are turned off.
Televisions, coffee makers, computers and a whole host of other electronics continue to use electricity because they either have a light on or a clock displayed.
Even ones that don’t still end up as energy vampires, draining small amounts throughout the day. Unplug them to stop their electricity drain. Check the light bulbs in your home. If they are not energy efficient, then replace them. If it is time to replace major appliances, then make sure you get energy efficient ones.
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Protect Your Home from the Sun
Plant trees or shrubbery on the west and south sides of your home to shade it from the direct rays of the sun.
In addition, closing all curtains and blinds on the west and south sides of your house, particularly from midday on.
You can also maximize the amount of sun that enters your home in the winter by installing large windows and skylights. You can use nature to your advantage regardless of the season.
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Get Annual Check-ups
The most important step you can take is to make sure your air conditioner is working at peak performance. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, if left unchecked, your unit can lose up to 5 to 15 percent of its efficiency each year due to dust build up. You can routinely change the filters and clean the coils.
Call a licensed HVAC expert with Christian Heating and Air Conditioning Inc. or a similar company in your area to check for any leaks or malfunctioning parts that may increase its workload and the electricity it uses.
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Work with Your Electric Company
Contact your local electricity company. Many companies have programs that can reduce your energy bill such as the voluntary direct load program. The electric company will install an energy control switch on your air conditioner or hot water heater.
During peak usage times, the company will turn off the electricity to that device for a short period of time. In exchange, you will receive bill credits. Also, if you are disabled or meet income limits, you may qualify for additional discounts.
Conserving energy and reducing your electric bill will take some planning on your part and consistency in implementing any changes you make. However, the efforts will soon become second nature to you and your family. It is something only you can implement.
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Anica Oaks is a Freelance writer and web enthusiast. Read some of her published work on her Google+ page.
