Trystan Casey
Reducing electricity usage at home is a great way to save money, increase energy security, and reduce pollution from non-renewable energy sources. There are many ways to reduce electricity use, such as purchasing energy-efficient appliances and electronics, adjusting the temperature on your water heater, and using smart power strips to reduce vampire loads from electronics that are not in use. Home heating and cooling are some of the biggest drivers of high electricity bills, so even small adjustments to your home's energy usage can make a big difference.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Lighting | Use energy-efficient lighting, such as LEDs, and incorporate more daylight into your home. |
| Heating and Cooling | Purchase energy-efficient systems, improve insulation, and use smart thermostats to reduce energy consumption. |
| Appliances | Buy energy-efficient appliances, such as ENERGY STAR models, and operate them efficiently. |
| Laundry | Wash and dry full loads, use cold water settings, and do laundry during off-peak hours to save on electricity rates. |
| Cooking | Avoid preheating the oven for too long, and consider using a microwave or electric stove instead. |
| Power Strips | Use advanced power strips to reduce "vampire loads" from electronics that are not in use. |
| Audits and Maintenance | Conduct energy audits and maintain HVAC systems annually to identify ways to reduce energy usage and improve efficiency. |
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What You'll Learn
Use energy-efficient lighting and appliances
Using energy-efficient lighting and appliances can significantly reduce your electricity usage and save you money. Here are some ways to achieve this:
Lighting
- Switch to LED lighting. LEDs use significantly less electricity than incandescent bulbs, and they last longer, so you'll save on replacement costs too.
- Install dimmer switches. Dimmers let you control the brightness of your lights, allowing you to use less power when full brightness isn't needed.
- Incorporate more natural light into your home. Use skylights and energy-efficient windows to let in more daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
Appliances
- Look for the Energy Star label. When purchasing new appliances, choose Energy Star-rated models, which are designed to be energy-efficient. This includes items like refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, and more.
- Reduce "always-on" appliances. Some appliances, like computers and TVs, continue to draw power even when turned off. Plug these into power strips and turn off the strip when not in use to save energy.
- Maintain your appliances. Regular maintenance can help improve the energy efficiency of your appliances. For example, cleaning the lint screen in your dryer improves air circulation and reduces drying times.
- Use appliances efficiently. Only run full loads in your washing machine and dishwasher, and use the cold water setting whenever possible. When cooking, avoid preheating the oven for too long, and consider using a microwave instead for shorter cooking times.
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Turn down the thermostat and water heater
One of the simplest ways to reduce your electricity bill is to adjust your thermostat. According to the Department of Energy, you can save as much as 10% on your heating and cooling costs by adjusting your thermostat by 7 to 10 degrees for 8 hours per day. For example, keep it a bit warmer in the summer and a bit cooler in the winter. You can adjust your thermostat manually or, if you have a smart thermostat, you can preset it to adjust while you're asleep or away from home.
Water heaters are another major contributor to high electricity bills. Most water heaters come preset at 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which is higher than necessary and poses a risk of scalding. The Energy Department recommends setting the thermostat on your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which is sufficient for most households and helps to reduce mineral buildup and corrosion in your water heater and pipes. For every 10 degrees you turn it down, you’ll save 3% to 5% on your bill.
To adjust the temperature of your water heater, first measure the current temperature of the hot water using a thermometer at the tap farthest from the water heater. Then, mark the setting on your water heater thermostat and turn the thermostat down. Wait a couple of hours and then measure the water temperature again at the same tap. You may need to repeat this process several times before you reach your desired temperature. Once you're satisfied, mark the new setting on your thermostat so that you can make adjustments in the future if necessary.
In addition to adjusting the thermostat, you can further reduce the energy consumption of your water heater by insulating your hot water pipes and tank. Insulating sleeves for pipes are inexpensive and easy to install, and they help water arrive at the faucet 2 to 4 degrees warmer, reducing the amount of time needed to heat the water. Insulating blankets for water heater tanks are also affordable and can help reduce heat loss, although you should be careful not to block critical components.
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Do laundry and chores off-peak
Doing laundry and chores during off-peak hours can help you save on your electricity bill. Off-peak hours refer to the times during the day or week when electricity demand and usage are at their lowest. Utility companies may have to generate more electricity during peak hours to meet the higher demand, which can cost more. This additional expense is passed on to the consumer through higher rates during peak hours. By contrast, off-peak hours offer more favourable pricing.
To take advantage of off-peak rates, you can shift your energy-intensive tasks, such as laundry, to these times. Generally, off-peak hours are between 11:00 pm and 7:00 am on weekdays and all day on weekends and holidays. However, these times may vary depending on your region and the time of year, so it is recommended to check with your local energy provider.
Washing and drying clothes can account for a significant portion of a household's energy consumption, especially when using hot water settings. Heating the water can account for up to 90% of the energy used by a clothes washer. Therefore, a simple way to reduce your energy usage is to use cold water settings whenever possible. Using cold water detergents can also help improve the effectiveness of washing with cold water.
In addition to doing laundry during off-peak hours, you can also save energy by filling up your washer and dryer without overloading them. This allows for efficient air circulation in the dryer, reducing energy wastage.
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Get a smart meter and power strip
Smart meters are an effective way to cut back on electricity usage. They are part of the "smart grid," which delivers electricity using digital technology, saving energy, reducing costs, and increasing reliability. With a smart meter, you can monitor and adjust your energy use, receiving alerts to keep track of your consumption and budget. Additionally, smart meters reduce pollution and fuel consumption by eliminating the need for meter readers to visit your home. They also enable you to take advantage of time-based rates, which can provide significant savings if you can shift your power usage to off-peak hours. For example, running your dishwasher late in the evening or recharging your electric vehicle at night can result in reduced electricity rates.
Smart meters also provide you with the ability to make informed decisions about your energy use. You can examine your hourly consumption, even checking usage at unusual hours like 3 AM, to identify areas where you can cut back. This information can help you reduce your "always-on" appliances and overall electricity demand.
Power strips, and more specifically, smart power strips, are another tool to reduce electricity usage. They are particularly useful for managing electronics that continue to consume energy even when turned off or in sleep mode, often referred to as "vampire loads." Devices like smart TVs, laptops, and cable boxes contribute to these vampire loads. By using a smart power strip, you can cut the power to these devices when they are not in use, saving energy. Traditional power strips are less effective in this regard because even when devices are turned off, they will continue to draw power if they remain plugged into an outlet with the strip turned on.
To effectively cut back on your electric usage, consider investing in both a smart meter and smart power strips. The smart meter will provide you with data and insights to make informed decisions, while the smart power strips will help you actively reduce "vampire loads" and efficiently manage your energy usage.
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Insulate your home
Insulating your home is a great way to cut back on electric usage and reduce your energy bills. Proper insulation helps to reduce heat transfer by trapping air pockets, keeping warm air inside during winter and preventing hot air from entering in summer. This is particularly important if you live in an older home, as newer homes are generally better insulated due to improved building energy codes.
There are several types of insulation materials to choose from, each with its advantages and suitable applications. Here are some common options:
- Fiberglass insulation: Fiberglass is widely used due to its affordability and fire resistance. It comes in pre-cut panels that fit easily between wall studs, attic rafters, and floor joists. It can also be purchased as blown-in insulation, which is ideal for attics and hard-to-reach spaces.
- Natural fiber insulation: Biodegradable wool, cotton, or hemp insulation is a popular choice for environmentally conscious homeowners. It offers good thermal resistance and can be treated with natural fire retardants.
- Rigid foam insulation: Rigid foam boards made from polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, or polyurethane provide high R-values (a measure of insulation performance) in a thin package. They are commonly used in foundation walls, concrete slabs, and exterior walls.
- Spray foam insulation: This type of insulation comes in open- and closed-cell varieties and can be applied in various spaces.
When insulating your home, it's important to consider the specific areas that need insulation and the accessibility of those spaces. For example, insulating a wall cavity is easier during new construction or renovations when the cavity is open. You may also want to consult a professional to ensure proper installation and avoid potential issues like moisture and air quality problems.
By investing in insulation upgrades, you can significantly improve your home's energy efficiency and comfort while also increasing its market value. The upfront costs can be offset by long-term savings and potential tax incentives, making it a wise investment for most homeowners.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many ways to reduce electricity usage, including:
- Purchasing energy-efficient appliances and electronics.
- Insulating your home and installing energy-efficient windows.
- Using a smart thermostat to control the temperature when you are away or asleep.
- Reducing the temperature on your water heater.
Here are some ways to reduce the cost of your electricity bill:
- Wash and dry full loads of laundry using cold water.
- Turn off power strips for electronics when they are not in use.
- Take advantage of off-peak rates by doing laundry and running the dishwasher late at night or early in the morning.
- Conduct an energy audit to identify ways to reduce energy usage.
To reduce electricity usage when cooking, consider the following:
- Avoid preheating the oven for too long.
- Use a microwave instead of a conventional oven, as it uses half the energy.
- Use an electric stove and turn it on to the right temperature before you start cooking.
To make your HVAC system more energy-efficient, try the following:
- Maintain your HVAC system annually to improve performance and save energy.
- Install ceiling fans to reduce the need for air conditioning.
- Ensure your ductwork is properly insulated and free of dust, lint, and debris to improve efficiency.
