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Ways You’re Wasting Electricity
Lately, the cost of living has been increasing, and homeowners are searching for ways to save money on their monthly bills. You may even find yourself deciding to stay home rather than going out, and that can cause you to use more electricity at home than usual.
Our team at Centennial Plumbing, Heating & Electrical wants to help you save energy and money! While using electricity is an essential part of life, you can still make yourself aware of excessive use. Here are some ways you could be wasting electricity at home.
Aged Water Heater
Waters heaters usually last from 6-13 years, and once they reach the end of their life, they use more energy to operate. A water heater can account for an estimated 20% of your home’s energy usage.
To reduce your energy bill, reduce how much hot water you use. Also, if it’s time to replace your water heater, you should invest in an Energy Star-certified model.
Leaving Hot Water Running
Sometimes we do little things like letting the water run while we brush our teeth or letting the shower run before getting in. These small things are actually big ways you’re wasting energy by heating your water. Not only is electricity being wasted, but so is the water you’re using. Try turning off the tap and shower when you’re not using them and only let them run when you’re actively using hot water.
Energy Vampires
Okay, so maybe not actual vampires like Dracula, but energy vampires are electronics you use but leave plugged in, even when you’re not using them. They suck up a lot of electricity even in sleep mode and can account for about 10% of your home’s total energy use if they’re left plugged in every day.
Check to make sure electronics and appliances like your work computer, printer, toaster, blender, and more are unplugged when they’re not in use. Turn them completely off and unplug whatever you don’t use on a regular basis.
Unsealed Windows
If you feel drafts around your windows, then they may need to be resealed. Your home’s heating system will work harder to produce enough heat to keep your home warm. When your heater works harder, then your energy bill will certainly show a difference and you’ll end up paying more over time.
To keep this from happening, seal your windows with caulking so that cold air doesn’t seep into your home.
Not Enough Insulation
Just like how our bodies need layers to stay warm, our homes do too! Over time, your home loses insulation effectiveness, and during winter and summer, your heating and cooling system will work harder to provide hot and cool air. Usually, in winter, poor insulation can cause you to lose valuable heat.
You should always have at least 10 to 14 inches of insulation in your attic to keep your energy usage level minimal.
Inefficient Light Bulbs
You may not think about this often, but the kind of light bulbs you buy can have an impact on your energy use. Invest in energy-efficient light bulbs like Energy Star certified bulbs or LEDs. Energy-efficient bulbs are beneficial because they last longer, are sometimes brighter, and help you save money!
Setting the Thermostat too Low or too High
Heating and cooling systems play a major role in your home’s energy efficiency and use. Setting your thermostat too high during the winter or too low in the spring and summer will raise your electricity bill. We suggest setting your thermostat to 68°F in the winter and 78°F in the summer to keep your energy use and bill low.
Transform Your Home with Centennial Plumbing, Heating & Electrical
Do you want to start over and reexamine the way you use electricity? Our team of seasoned electricians can help transform your home and make it more energy-efficient. Give us a call to see how we can help you save electricity and find useful solutions at (306) 500-7392.