Everyone wants to save money, and with the average monthly utility bill around $600, reducing energy usage at home is a smart place to start. Luckily for homeowners in Austin, there are several effective ways to lower their energy bill without needing to invest in expensive appliances or HVAC upgrades—though those options may be more affordable than you think.
How to Save Money on Your Energy Bill for Free
Lowering home bills is made easier with new technologies and energy-minded habits. By following these energy efficiency tips, the average household can substantially reduce their energy consumption.
Consider these easy, cost-effective ways to improve energy efficiency that won’t cost you a dime.
1. Adjust the temperature.
Home heating and cooling systems account for over 40% of the average utility bill. Therefore, modifying your usage of these systems is one of the most effective ways to reduce energy waste. Adjusting your thermostat settings by 7 to 10 degrees at night can lead to savings of 10% or more on your annual heating and cooling costs!
2. Unplug electronics.
Even when turned off, plugged-in electronics still consume a small amount of electricity. This phenomenon is often referred to as “phantom load” or “vampire power.” Unused electronics contribute to unnecessary energy costs; the average US household spends about $165 a year powering devices that aren’t in use.
3. Adjust your water heater temperature.
Most water heaters are set to a default temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. By lowering your water heater temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, you can reduce the risk of scalding and save between 4% and 22% on your energy bills—potentially up to $400 a year!
4. Use natural lighting and airflow.
Use passive airflow and lighting to help heat, cool, and illuminate your home. Keep curtains open on sunny days in winter to let in the sun’s heat. During summer, keep curtains closed to keep the sun out. Open and close windows as needed to let nature regulate indoor temperatures. These habits will allow you to use your HVAC system a little less frequently without being uncomfortable.
5. Shut off the lights.
Make it a habit to turn off lights when leaving a room, and try to use natural light from outside as much as possible. Calculating exactly how much you’ll save by doing this depends on the type of light bulb and how long it's left on. Over the course of a year, however, you’ll notice the impact on your energy bill. It’s really that simple!
More Ways to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
One of the most effective ways to reduce your energy bill 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. Although it might not seem practical to replace a functioning furnace, your Precision Heating & Air technician can assist you in determining when it makes financial sense to make the switch.
Read more: Three Ways to Tackle Common Indoor Air Quality Problems
How Much Energy Do US Households Consume?
The average U.S. household consumes approximately 10,800 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy each year, which is about 899 kWh per month. However, energy usage can vary significantly depending on the home size and location.
Several factors influence a household's energy usage, including the size and age of the home, types of appliances used, climate conditions, and the number of occupants.
Reducing electricity consumption—such as that from air conditioning and lighting—can provide immediate savings. That’s because natural gas is generally less expensive than electricity.
We’re Austin’s Trusted Energy Efficiency Experts
Home energy efficiency improvements don’t just help you save on energy bills. Regular HVAC maintenance and filter replacement can prolong your system’s functional lifespan! Precision Heating & Air experts are always ready to address all your HVAC needs.
Call 512-379-6385 orcontact us online to schedule HVAC, electrical, or plumbing services in Austin, Sun City, and the surrounding areas.