If your last few energy bills were higher than you would like, it’s time to step back and review what you can change. In many instances, your system might be pumping out extra electricity that you are not getting the full use of. With that in mind, here are a few electrician-recommended tips for reducing your monthly usage, as well as your carbon footprint.

A Guide to Reducing Your Electric Bill

1. Switch to CFL & LED Lights

Switch all of your incandescent light bulbs to CFL or LED alternatives. Both cost more up front but use little energy and last thousands of hours longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, in part because they do not burn as hot.

2. Insulate Wherever You Can

If you have drafts in your house, your heating and cooling systems have to work overtime to keep temperature levels where you want them. To prevent this, use caulk and weatherstripping materials to seal doors and windows and add insulation to your attic.

3. Keep Your Appliances Unplugged

Avoid phantom energy usage by unplugging any appliance you are not actively employing. Turned-off devices left plugged into your system account for up to 10% of your annual energy spending. Also, consider switching to ENERGY STAR® versions of your current machines if you want to lower your costs even further.

4. Make Your Water Heater & Washer More Efficient

Turn down your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to save up to 22% on your yearly electric bill. You can also insulate it to use even less energy.

Increase your washing machine’s efficiency by washing clothes in cold water. Often, they get just as clean while requiring less power.

5. Have an Electrician Perform an Energy Audit

Most systems in your house can benefit from routine maintenance work to ensure optimal efficiency. Not only will a visit from an electrician verify that all the components are in good working condition, but they can also suggest other cost-cutting methods, such as installing a time-of-use meter that helps you pay less for electricity based on the time of day.

The licensed, bonded, and insured electricians at McAtlin Electrical Corporation provide home and business owners throughout Colorado, Utah, and Arizona with a full suite of services ranging from house wiring to professional lighting control systems to directional boring. Call (970) 257-7414 today to schedule service or visit them online to review their latest projects.