10 Tips to Help Save Money with the Electric Company

Ever-increasing charges from your electric company may prompt you to look at ways of saving electricity. The good news is that there are several ways of cutting down on electric bills without giving up on comfort.

Tip 1: Use a Thermostat

Use a thermostat when you run the air conditioner of heater in your home. This will help you avoid considerable energy wastage that occurs when the house is unoccupied, or during the night time. Avoid setting the thermostat too high or too low. The temperature is regulated after some time and this can save you money, while maintaining the same level of comfort.

Tip 2: Use Alternate Cooling Options

In place of the air conditioner, you can use an electric fan. Only use the air conditioner when it is so hot that running the fan only circulates hot air around. You can also use ice cubes, cool water and wet packs to cool yourself down.

Tip 3: Use Fluorescent Bulbs

Using fluorescent bulbs can save a sizable amount of money on lighting. These bulbs cost considerably more than standard light bulbs, but you will be thankful for the investment when you receive your electric bill. Fluorescent bulbs also last much longer than standard bulbs.

Tip 4: Replace Old Appliances with Energy Efficient Ones

Energy efficient appliances can take away a sizable chunk off of your electric bill. However, it may not be economically feasible to replace all your appliances with energy efficient ones right away. But it is always a good idea to look around and get an idea of the best brands. When it is time to replace an appliance, you will not have to spend as much time searching.

Tip 5: Minimize Use of Hot Water

Make sure you have low flow faucets and shower-heads. This will minimize wastage of water. Avoid using hot water for washing dishes and clothes.

Tip 6: Use the Dishwasher when it is Fully Loaded

Running the dishwasher consumes a lot of energy; so it is best to run it only when it is fully loaded. Avoid using heating options, and try to air dry the dishes.

Tip 7: Minimize Stand-by Power Wastage

Unplug appliances such as televisions, DVD players and computers when they are not in use. Such appliances consume a small amount of energy even when they are switched off and plugged in.

Tip 8: Look at Energy-efficient Options for Washing and Drying

Use cold water for washing clothes. In addition to saving energy, it will also keep your clothes in good condition. Use a clothesline to dry clothes outdoors when weather permits. Otherwise, use an unoccupied area indoors to dry clothes.

Tip 9: Switch off Appliances That are Not in Use

Every time you leave a room, ensure that you have turned off the lights, fans and electrical appliances. If you have kids at home, check every room once in a while to ensure that all unused appliances have been turned off.

Tip 10: Have Your Meter Checked Regularly

Even if you are very stringent about your electricity use, a faulty meter can cost you hundreds of dollars in excess of what you owe the electric company. To avoid such a situation, have the electric company check your meter checked once in a while.