Everyone loves to save money on as many products as we possibly can. However, one product we all tend to forget about especially homeowners is the electric bill. Your electrical bill can actually be one of the most expensive home bills because many homeowners are not aware of the small steps they can take to reduce the monthly expense.
Currently, Americans spend $130 billion on energy alone per year. All this energy is not being completely used, it is actually going to waste. If you really think about it that is a lot of energy being wasted. Therefore, we have looked into 10 home improvement ideas that will make your home more energy efficient. Following these tips will allow you to save more money along the way.
1- Change Incandescent Light Bulbs
One of the biggest reasons why your electric bill may be as high as it is because of your incandescent light bulbs. These light bulbs are actually energy suckers. Therefore, they burn faster and more light which will make your bill rank up in price. It has been shown that on average, American households burn 47 light bulbs. We recommended changing your incandescent light bulbs to LED indoor lamps in order to save the most amount of money.
2- Dual Flush Toilets Are the Way to Go
Dual flush toilets don’t look much different but they make a huge difference.
We all tend to flush the toilet as many times as we go to the bathroom the problem with this is not only are we using more-light than we need to we are also making a dent on our light bill. A dual flush toilet is the answer to this problem. It actually has two handles or buttons that flush different water levels to ensure you do not use more than what is needed. This energy efficient tip will save you more than $100 per year.
3- Use Light Dimmers
Using light dimmers is an excellent way to keep your light bill as low as possible. Light dimmers actually help you save 90 percent of the light energy you use which will result in a 10 percent reduction in your overall light bill. You simply program your light dimmers to reduce its light to a setting that works for you and your needs. The less light you use combined with LED bulbs the more savings you will have every month.
4- Shut Off Laptops and Desktops When Not in Use
How many times have we all left our laptop or desktops on when they are not in use? Doing so is actually causing you a higher electric bill. The key to have them automatically shut off after a short period of time with them not being in use. If your laptop and/or desktop have this feature, make sure to use it as it will benefit you and save you money in the long run.
5- Change Outdoor Light Bulbs
After a late night, outdoors sometimes many of us will forget to turn off our outdoor lights. Therefore, instead of wasting light because of forgetfulness the key is to get dusk to dawn LED light bulbs. These light bulbs were created to automatically turn off at the time you program them to. This will prevent energy wasting.
6- Your Air Filters Need to Be Changed Regularly
Another great way to save on your electrical expenses is by changing your air filters on a regular basis. It is not enough to change them when they seem dirty or worn out. You want to change them regularly to save money. The reason being if you spend more than $100 in heating and cooling you could actually be losing the money by not changing the filter as the air will not heat or cool properly. By making this a regular habit you could save almost $50 a year.
7- Solar Powered Outdoor Systems Are a Must
Many homeowners will actually be completely against having solar powered outdoor systems because of how initially expensive they can be. Although, they can be pricey they will benefit you in the long run. Solar powered outdoor systems can initially cost $600 or more depending on the size of the area you want them in. Having these can save you more than $30 per year. Might not seem like much, but once accumulated you will be saving a ton.
8- Use Your Ceiling Fan
Ceiling fans are an excellent alternative to using your air conditioner. The reason being ceiling fans uses generally less electricity than air conditioners do. Air conditioners actually guzzle electricity while ceiling fans do not. They actually consume very little electricity, which is beneficial for you and your electrical bill. You could actually reduce your electrical bill by 10 percent.
9- Strip Down Your Power Strips
Power strips are extremely convenient, especially when you want to plug multiple electrical devices in one area. However, they are actually draining your electricity. The reason being many electronics such as plasma TVs, gaming systems, and even cell phones will continue to consume electricity even when they are powered off. The key to using power strips is to use not over stack the strip instead connect two or three devices. Doing so can help you save money in the long run.
10- Protect Your Windows
Large windows when sealed properly will help you save some money.
Windows are one of the least energy efficient items in your home as when they are not properly protected or installed they can actually be causing you money. If your windows are not airtight you will lose money. However, technology can help us by using smart blinds. Smart blinds when programed will close when it begins to get dark outside and reopen as the sun comes up. Therefore, help you save heat and light all at once.
