20 Little Tricks to Lower Your Electric Bill

Learning how to reduce your electric bill usually means wading through pages of advice on replacing your appliances and improving the structure of your home, but lowering your electricity bill doesn’t have to be complicated or difficult. Check out these 20 fast ways to reduce your electric bill today:

1. Use power strips to consolidate your energy usage, and switch them off when the appliances are not in use.
2. Keep your refrigerator and freezer on the lowest setting possible without compromising the interior temperature.
3. Defrost your freezer on a regular basis.
4. Use your microwave instead of the stovetop or oven whenever possible.
5. Replace the air filters in your air conditioning unit.
6. Regularly maintain your furnace to keep it running efficiently.
7. Use humidifiers and dehumidifiers in winter and summer, respectively, to battle against the cold and heat.
8. Use timers to control the heating, cooling, and even lights inside your home.
9. Keep your curtains open to utilize natural light instead of relying on artificial lights.
10. Use cold water in your washer whenever possible.
11. Avoid running your dishwasher unless you need it.
12. Remove dust and buildup from your appliances whenever possible.
13. Use single high-watt bulbs instead of multiple smaller bulbs to light your home.
14. Clear out your vents and air ducts regularly to maximize air flow.
15. Keep kitchen appliances shut as much as possible (including refrigerators and ovens).
16. Use compact fluorescent bulbs, or LED lighting.
17. Use fans in your house to circulate warm or cold air.
18. Consider using natural gas for heating purposes.
19. Check and repair the seals of your refrigerator and freezer.
20. Unplug big appliances, like TVs, when you aren’t home.