Countless recent news headlines warn us of the earth’s limited energy resources and the importance of conservation. These concerns, paired with rising inflation rates, may be causing you to ask yourself, “What can I do to improve my energy bills at home?”
Why It’s Important for Homeowners to Explore Energy Conservation
People worldwide are becoming aware of the importance of energy saving measures at home. This generally comes down to a couple things: consumers can save money on their energy bills while also reducing harmful environmental damages.
When homeowners take energy-saving measures at home, such as choosing a cleaner or greener energy source or reducing usage with their current energy source, both the homeowner and the overall environment can enjoy benefits. Along with lower energy bills, homeowners can reduce their dependence on pollution-causing, nonrenewable fossil fuels while reducing the air and ozone layer. While this sounds like a great outcome for both homeowners and the global environment, meaningful results can only be seen when everyone commits and contributes.
Instilling a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly way of life doesn’t mean making major changes to your current routine! While you may be worried you’ll have to sit in the dark or wash your laundry by hand, there are many quick and easy energy-saving tips that can add up to a sizable difference in your footprint and energy bill.
To get your conservation started, here are a few simple habits you can adopt to quickly begin making a difference in your energy consumption:
- Switch to green energy options
- Turn off the lights as you exit a room
- Use energy-saving light bulbs
- Use less water and turn it off between washing dishes, brushing teeth, etc.
- Turn electronics off instead of in sleep mode
So, What Exactly Uses the Most Electricity?
This may be different depending on your location, but heating and cooling are typically the largest electricity consumers. While heat and air conditioning are often essential, you can reduce your energy usage when you go to sleep at night or when you leave the house.
Does Unplugging Devices Actually Save Electricity and Money?
Pretty straightforward, right? If something is unplugged, no electricity is being used. But, did you know, that even if your devices are turned off, they can still draw power, whether it’s charged to 100% or not? It’s true! Simply unplugging any electronics, appliance, or charger can help bring this number down and put money in your pocket.
Tips to Lower Your Electricity Bill
Luckily, when taking steps to save energy, electricity and other energy bills generally drop as a direct result!
Here are four ways to make a difference when it comes to your energy bills:
- Turn the light switch OFF: Did you know that lighting can account for 15% of your electricity, but can increase quickly if used more than necessary? A great habit to adopt is simply turning off lights when you leave the room.
- Replace old light bulbs: Use energy-saving bulbs, like LEDs instead.
- Install smart technology: The latest smart technology can be a more expensive investment but will provide you with money-saving benefits in no time. Examples include motion sensor lights or thermostats that turn the heat or air conditioning on so that your home is cooled down before you get there.
- Upgrade outdated appliances: Tired of looking at your outdated dishwasher or washing machine? This is the perfect time to replace them! Chances are a newer one with an “energy-efficient” or ENERGY STAR rating will use less energy, so there’s no better time than now to upgrade!
While it does require discipline to change some habits, there are only positive outcomes to reducing the amount of energy you use in your home. Not only can you help reduce pollution and reliance on non-renewable resources, but you will also reduce cost while working towards a more energy-efficient and sustainable lifestyle.
There are many ways you can save energy at home. Another option? Switching to a provider that can provide both energy and budget-friendly costs at the same time! As an Indra Energy customer, you can choose a smart, budget-friendly energy plan. Learn more about our offerings here.
