Rising energy costs have many homeowners searching for ways to reduce their bills. Fortunately, making a few adjustments as to how we use energy in our homes can lead to significant savings over time. Here are practical tips to help you lower your energy bills and make your home more efficient.

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Appliances account for a large portion of your home’s energy consumption. Switching to ENERGY STAR® certified appliances, like refrigerators, washers, dryers, and dishwashers, can save hundreds of dollars each year. These appliances use less energy and water, helping you cut costs and reduce your carbon footprint.

Seal Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors let warm or cool air escape, causing your HVAC system to work harder. Sealing gaps with weatherstripping or caulking prevents air leaks and maintains a consistent indoor temperature. This small investment can make a noticeable difference, especially during extreme weather months.

Adjust Your Thermostat

Heating and cooling account for almost half of a typical home’s energy use. Installing a programmable thermostat lets you set your heating and cooling system to run less when you’re not home or asleep, helping you save on energy costs. Consider lowering the temperature in winter and raising it in summer, even by just a few degrees—this adjustment can lead to noticeable savings.

Use LED Lighting

Switching to LED bulbs is a simple and cost-effective way to reduce electricity use. LEDs use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last significantly longer. For an even greater impact, consider installing motion sensors or dimmer switches to further manage your lighting use.

Maintain Your HVAC System

A well-maintained HVAC system operates more efficiently. Replace your air filters regularly, ideally every three months, to prevent dust buildup that can strain the system. Annual inspections and tune-ups can also help catch issues early, ensuring your heating and cooling system runs efficiently throughout the year.

Unplug Devices Not in Use

Many electronics draw power even when they’re turned off. This “phantom” energy drain can add up, especially with devices like computers, game consoles, and phone chargers. Unplugging devices when not in use or using a power strip with an off switch can help reduce this wasted energy.

Take Advantage of Off-Peak Hours

Many utility companies offer lower rates during off-peak hours, typically late at night or early in the morning. Running energy-intensive appliances, like dishwashers, washers, and dryers, during these times can reduce your overall energy costs. Some smart appliances even have a scheduling feature, so you can program them to run during off-peak times.

Insulate Your Home

Proper insulation helps keep your home at a comfortable temperature without overworking your heating or cooling system. Adding or upgrading insulation in your attic, walls, and floors can prevent heat loss in winter and keep cool air in during summer. This can result in lower energy bills and a more comfortable home year-round.

Close Your Fireplace Damper

When you aren’t burning a fire in your fireplace, keep the damper closed. This is easy to forget once the fire has burned out, but it causes heat loss and drafts in your house. 

> Be sure to OPEN the damper when starting a fire!

Use Natural Lighting and Ventilation

Natural light can reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day, while proper ventilation can help keep your home cool without relying heavily on air conditioning. Open your windows to allow cross-ventilation during cool mornings or evenings and close blinds during hot afternoons to block excess heat.

Invest in Renewable Energy Options

Consider installing solar panels or a home battery system to generate and store your own electricity. Solar energy is a long-term investment that can significantly reduce your reliance on the grid. Additionally, many states and utility companies offer rebates and incentives to offset installation costs, making renewable energy more affordable.

Use Ceiling Fans Wisely

Ceiling fans can help circulate air and make a room feel cooler in summer or warmer in winter, allowing you to adjust your thermostat by a few degrees. In the summer, set fans to rotate counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze; in the winter, set them to rotate clockwise at a low speed to redistribute warm air that rises to the ceiling.

Small Changes, Big Savings

By taking simple steps to use energy more efficiently, you can see a real difference in your monthly bills. Whether it’s upgrading appliances, sealing air leaks, or making use of natural light, each adjustment helps reduce your overall energy consumption.

At Thomas Edison Electric, we’re committed to helping our customers create more energy-efficient homes. From energy-saving lighting installations to home energy audits, our team can recommend and install solutions that work for your home and budget. Give us a call today!