If your electricity bill is too high, it may be time to analyze your consumption. There are several steps you can take to save power and save on your bill.
Take advantage of natural light.
Light accounts for around 30% of your total electricity bill. However, the bulk of the usage is unnecessary. There is no need to keep the lights on when the sun is out since the natural light offers enough illumination. You only need to draw the curtains.
Change to power-saving appliances.
Advances in technology have led to the manufacture of power-saving electrical devices. These include bulbs, iron boxes, washing machines, refrigerators, and microwaves. You can check the manufacturer's description on energy efficiency and power rating before purchasing any electrical device. Although they are often pricey, what you save on power makes up for the extra cost. Additionally, in order to know how to find lower energy rates, you can compare energy plans from different providers and choose the one with the lowest rates. Some providers also offer incentives and discounts for using energy-efficient devices, which can further reduce your energy bills.
Replace old devices
Old devices often run at low efficiency and have a lot of energy losses. Therefore, you must replace your old TV, oven, radio, fridge, and iron to save power. You can either trade or sell the devices.
Moreover, if a device has exhausted its operational life, replace it. As electronics age, the components become less efficient, and more power is used.
Unplug unused electronics
Around 10% of the total energy consumption in many households is accrued from standby power. In addition, several devices consume power while idling. Therefore it's crucial to get into the habit of unplugging appliances that are not in use. You will save a lot.
Switch off the main power when you travel.
If you will be away for an extended period, it's essential to ensure all the electrical devices in the house are off. You can switch off the main power to be sure. However, remember to empty your refrigerator before you leave. You want to avoid returning to a rotten food-filled fridge.
Turn only some things to the maximum.
Most electrical devices have power options that regulate the output. Operating at minimum levels saves power. Therefore, you don't have to reduce your iron to the maximum to un-crease a thin shirt. You can gradually heat the house at minimum levels instead of turning the heater's dial to maximum. Moreover, if your fridge is almost empty, running at maximum power is unnecessary.
Change your laundry routine.
If you are keen on saving power, here is how to do your laundry.
Switch most of your washing cycles to cold water since it saves power.
Hang your clothes to dry instead of using the dryer.
Keep the fridge closed.
The cooling function of a fridge is compromised when the seal of the compartment is broken. As a result, more power is used to maintain the low temperatures.
The best way to maintain the efficiency of a fridge is to keep the door closed.
Microwave oven
If you can use a microwave instead of the oven, take it. A microwave consumes less power than an oven. Moreover, it heats food faster.
Take shorter showers
Many people are guilty of spending a lot of time in the shower. As a result, the water heating costs are often high. A good solution is to take a shorter shower. If you need motivation, turn off the heater or reduce the water temperature.
Go Solar
The most significant step you can take to save on your electricity bills is installing a solar panel. Solar can serve as an adjunct or replacement to the national grid supply. If you generate extra power, you may even get a credit on your bill.
Your bill doesn't have to be high. Take the necessary steps, and you will see it come down.