Being a homeowner comes with a lot of responsibilities, especially when it comes to managing the expenses around your house. With rising electricity costs and environmental concerns, it’s important to find ways to save energy and reduce your bills. Here are 5 tips to get you started:
Draught-Proof Your House
Draught-proofing your home is an easy way to reduce your heating and cooling bills. Small gaps around windows and doors can let in cold air in the winter and hot air in the summer, making your heating and cooling system work harder than it needs to. By sealing these gaps with weather stripping, you can reduce your energy use by up to 30%. You can request a FREE quote from our HomeStars Pros to get your home waterproofed.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a wise investment that can save you a lot of money on your heating and cooling bills. With a programmable thermostat, you can set different temperatures for different times of the day, so you’re not wasting energy when you’re away from home. Some thermostats are smart enough to learn your behaviour and adjust the temperature accordingly.
Switch to LED Lighting
One of the easiest ways to reduce your electricity bill is by replacing your traditional incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs. LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than conventional bulbs. Plus, they emit less heat, making them safer and more convenient to use. You can also install dimmers and timers, which not only save electricity but also increase the lifespan of your bulbs.
Perform Regular Appliance Repair and Maintenance
Regular appliance maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your devices and reduce energy consumption. Check the filters and coils on your refrigerator, air conditioner or furnace and clean them regularly. Maintaining your appliances can help them perform better, longer, and more efficiently, which saves you money in the long run. Also, make sure any appliances you purchase are ENERGY STAR-certified products, to know for certain they meet the standards of energy efficiency.
Unplug Appliances
Even when turned off, some appliances continue to consume energy. This is known as standby power or phantom load. To reduce your electricity bill, consider unplugging appliances that are not in use, such as your microwave, toaster, and coffee maker. This is especially important when you’re going on vacation or leaving the house for an extended period.
3 Expense Reducers to Consider
Gas Prices
If your home uses natural gas for heating and cooking, you can save money by shopping around for an energy provider that offers competitive rates. Comparing gas prices from different providers can help you find the best deal, and certain companies also offer discounts or rewards for signing up with them.
Hydro Rates
Hydro rates are another significant expense for homeowners. By reducing your energy use and investing in energy-efficient appliances, you can lower your hydro bills. Some provinces also offer additional programs for reducing energy use, such as rebates for purchasing ENERGY STAR-certified products or upgrading your home’s insulation.
Solar Energy Costs
The cost of solar energy has come down significantly in recent years, making it more affordable than ever. Solar panels can help reduce your electricity bills significantly and generate clean energy for your home. Investing in solar energy requires a significant upfront cost, but it pays off in the long run by reducing your electricity bills and the environmental impact of your household. Find an expert to help you find the best fit for your home.
As you just read, being a homeowner means taking care of your energy use and making smart choices to save money and reduce your impact on the environment. By following these tips to reduce your electricity bills, including regular appliance repair and maintenance, replacing traditional bulbs with LED bulbs and purchasing ENERGY STAR-certified products, you can save money while making your home more energy-efficient. Remember, even small changes can add up to significant savings over time, so start making changes today.
Start your energy savings by looking for the right service professional for your project today!
