The average home in the United States uses 899 kilowatthours (kWh) of electricity per month, that added up to around $1860 a year in 2022. With electric rates on the rise, let’s take a look at some simple ways you can save money each month on your electric bill.
Energy Efficient Light Bulbs
Swapping out old incandescent light bulbs with more energy efficient LED or compact fluorescent light bulbs can save your household up to $75 a year. An added bonus is that they last longer. LED light bulbs can last up to 20 years before needing to be replaced.
Smart Power Strips
Even though your electronics are off, they may still be using small bits of electricity while they sit in standby mode. Many devices that have remote controls work this way, as they have sensors waiting for input from the remote control. Plugging these devices into a smart power strip will completely cut off the current of electricity to the device while they are in standby mode, saving energy and you money in the process.
Turn Off Your Lights
It seems simple enough, but turning off your lights when you’re not in a room can save you a lot of money. Smart bulbs and smart light switches can help with this, as you can turn off the light when you’re not in the room or even at home via an app.
Check Your Air Filter
Changing out the air filter for your furnace and air conditioning every three months will not only save you on your electric bill, as your HVAC will run more efficiently, but it will also increase the life of your heating and cooling system.
Get a Smart Thermostat
Changing the temperature you keep your home when you’re not there can make a huge difference when it comes to your electric bill. Smart thermostats let you set a schedule to automatically adjust the temperature when you’re at work, sleeping, etc. A smart thermostat will also allow you to control the temperature via your smart phone. Some even use geofencing, which tracks your location via your phone and automatically adjusts up or down when you aren’t in your home.
Upgrade to ENERGY STAR Appliances
Switching to ENERGY STAR appliances can save electricity because these appliances are designed to use advanced technologies that consume less energy while delivering the same (or better) performance as standard models. On average, ENERGY STAR certified products use 10–50% less energy, reducing electricity bills and lowering your environmental impact without sacrificing functionality.
Keep a Full Freezer
Keeping your freezer full of ice cream, frozen vegetables, frozen pizzas, leftovers, meat, etc helps insulate the appliance. This keeps the freezer cold, longer. If it’s cold, it doesn’t have to run as much and you save money.
Only Run Appliances When They’re Full
Running the washing machine, dryer and dishwasher uses a lot of electricity. On average a washing machine uses 590 kWh and a clothes dryer uses 769 kWh. That’s a lot of electricity. Even though it’s tempting to wash your favorite shirt when it gets dirty, you can save a lot by waiting until you have a full load of laundry. When you can, use the automatic sensors for washing and drying instead of timed cycles. The sensors can detect when the clothes are clean or dry and only run as long as absolutely is needed, saving energy and you money.
Seal leaks & insulate
By sealing up cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and other spots, you keep warm air from sneaking out in winter and cool air from escaping in summer. That means your heating and cooling systems don’t have to work as hard, saving you money on electricity!
Adding insulation (like in your attic or walls) is like wrapping your home in a warm blanket. It helps maintain a comfy temperature without overworking your HVAC system. The result? Lower energy bills and a happier planet. Win-win!
Request an Energy Audit
Many electric providers offer a free energy audit. They can help you identify additional ways to cut down on your electric usage and save money. Check with your local utility about setting up an audit, many even offer virtual audits.
Unplug Unused Devices
Electronics and chargers draw power even when turned off (called phantom load). Chargers, TVs, game consoles, and even coffee makers can keep drawing power just by being plugged in. By unplugging them (or using a smart power strip), you cut off that hidden energy drain. It’s a small habit that adds up over time, helping lower your electricity bill and reducing wasted energy.
Calculate Energy Use
If you’re wondering just how much energy that appliance or device uses, head on over to the energy saver calculator from energy.gov. Understanding how much electricity each item in your home uses can go a long way towards saving money on your electric bill.
Switch Providers
If you live in a state with deregulated electricity, you have the option of switching providers. Switching providers can get you a lower rate or a plan that better fits your usage and needs.
About the Author
David has been an integral part of some of the biggest utility sites on the internet, including InMyArea.com, HighSpeedInternet.com, BroadbandNow.com, and U.S. News. He brings over 15 years of experience writing about, compiling and analyzing utility data.