Everyone likes saving money, and when the average monthly utility bill hovers around $600, reducing energy use at home is a great place to start. Decatur homeowners can lower their energy bills in several ways without making big-ticket appliance or HVAC equipment upgrades – and even those may be more affordable than you think.
Learn how to make your home more energy efficient now and in the long term.
Five Ways to Save Money on Your Energy Bill
Reducing energy use at home is not as daunting as it may seem. The average household can significantly lower their energy consumption with the right technology and energy-minded habits. Consider these simple ways to improve energy efficiency that don’t cost a dime.
1. Adjust the thermostat.
Home heating and cooling systems account for more than 40% of the average utility bill, so adjusting how you use them is the best way to reduce energy waste. For example, adjusting your thermostat at night by 7 to 10 degrees can save you 10% or more on your yearly heating and cooling costs!
2. Unplug unused electronics.
Even when turned off, plugged-in electronics draw a small amount of electricity. Sometimes referred to as “phantom load” or “vampire power,” unused electronic energy draw adds up; the average US household spends about $165 annually powering devices that aren’t in use.
3. Adjust your water heater thermostat.
Many water heaters are set to 140 degrees F by default, and most homeowners never think to adjust them. Lowering your water heater temperature to 120 degrees will reduce the risk of scalding and save you between 4% and 22% on your energy bills—up to $400 a year!
4. Use natural heating and cooling.
Here’s a simple yet effective way to make your home more energy efficient: Embrace the humble curtain and window.
Keep curtains open on sunny days in winter to harness the sun’s heat. During summer, keep curtains closed to block out the sun.
Open and close windows as needed to let nature regulate indoor temperatures.
These habits will allow you to use your HVAC system less frequently without sacrificing comfort.
5. Turn off the lights.
It’s really that simple. Make it a habit to turn off lights when leaving a room, and try to use natural light from outside as much as possible. Over a year, you’ll notice the impact on your energy bill!
More Ways to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
When it’s time to replace HVAC equipment or older appliances, always choose ENERGY STAR-approved products.ENERGY STAR certifies various furnaces, air conditioning units, heat pumps, and appliances based on strict specifications.
One of the most effective ways to reduce energy bills is to upgrade outdated and inefficient technology with modern equipment. For instance, heat pumps can be up to three times more efficient than traditional gas furnaces. Similarly, a smart thermostat can track your habits and adjust heating or cooling functions based on need and efficiency.
While replacing a functioning appliance may not be practical, your Valley Heating & Cooling technician can help determine when upgrading or replacing your HVAC units will be most beneficial.
Read more: Three Ways to Reduce Indoor Air Quality Problems
How Much Energy Does the Average Home Use?
The average US householduses 10,800 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year or about 899 kWh monthly. Of course, energy use varies widely by home and by region. For example, older and larger homes typically use more energy than smaller or newer homes.
Other factors affecting home energy use include:
- Appliance use
- Climate
- Number of household occupants
It’s worth noting that natural gas is usually slightly less expensive than electricity. Reducing electrical system consumption (e.g., from air conditioning and lighting) offers the most immediate benefits to homeowners. You can save electricity, money, and the planet by making small changes and planning for larger infrastructure changes!
Home Energy Efficiency in the Tennessee Valley
We’re committed to offering Decatur residents professional, affordable, energy-efficient home HVAC services. Our technicians have the experience and resources to make cost-effective upgrades to help you and your family reduce high energy bills.
Call 256-474-7550 orcontact us online to schedule HVAC, electrical, or plumbing services in Decatur, Athens, and the surrounding areas.