Electricity Bill – Cutting It In Half
Your electricity bill has been on the rise, and this year, winter has come with cold temperatures and high electricity prices. Consequently, finding new ways to cut your electricity bill is increasingly important. It’s not always about just turning down the thermostat! There are many ways we can make small changes in our everyday lifestyles. In this blog, we will share some surefire options to see instant savings month after month.
Upgrade HVAC systems
First off, one of the most impactful ways to cut your electricity bill is to upgrade current systems. Do you have the ENERGY STAR label on your appliances? If not, you should consider upgrading to newer appliances. Sure, there are the added expenses – but the savings in the long run need to be considered. Devices that contain the ENERGY STAR label are certified to consume less energy — the most impactful, the HVAC in your home. ENERGY STAR appliances cost 8-25% less to operate. That means, more money in your pocket!
Appliance Savings
Furnace 12 – 16%
Air Conditioner 8%
Ventilation up to 25%
Are you interested in investing in your home? We would love to help. Contact us today for more information on upgrading your HVAC systems.
Weatherize and Insulate
Many people aren’t aware of air leaks within their homes. Common areas for leaks are windows, vents, and doors. Does this sound like your home? You’re not the only one! When you weatherize your home, you seal these leaks. In turn, you significantly reduce the energy you need to heat your homes. Alternatively, in the summer your home will stay cooler. We suggest two methods for weatherizing your home: Firstly, you can use caulk on stationery items. For moving objects such as windows and doors, weather stripping is often used.
Besides weathering, you should fully insulate your home. Proper insulation saves homeowners money and improves comfort. Heat travels in the house from heated areas to unheated areas. Therefore, it is essential to create adequate insulation to keep your home cozy and warm.
Did you know you lose 25% of heat through your roof? By insulating walls and ceilings, you can reduce this number. Other areas to watch for include attics, floors, and basements. You always want to make sure your home is ready for the Canadian winters we experience. A house that is properly insulated will keep the warmth in and the cold air out!
Use Energy Efficient Products
We fill our homes with energy-sucking products that add to our costly electricity bills. These products work well, but are not energy efficient in the least. Everyday items include light bulbs, light switches, and thermostats.
Do yours have the ENERGY STAR label? On average, ENERGY STAR light bulbs use 75% less energy than its counterparts. As well, they last around 20% longer. When you multiply those savings by the number of bulbs you have in your house, it begins to add up. Subsequently, dimmer switches can be added in your home to help reduce energy. Making the change in your products means making a change to your electricity bill.
Maintain Your Furnace
A furnace that is properly maintained is both energy-efficient and slows the accumulation of excess dust. You should check the filter in your furnace at least once a month. If it looks dirty, replace it. When your furnace is clean, it doesn’t have to work as hard! Less work, less hydro. It is also important to remember to clean vents and registers regularly. Ensure they are clear and free from obstructions at all times. A clean system will ensure maximum efficiency and comfort in your home.
Moreover, properly servicing your furnace can make a significant difference. Even if you keep a clean furnace, things can go wrong! Therefore, it is vital to have a professional look at your furnace annually. At ATN Mechanical, we can help you find the problem before it is a real issue. No one wants their furnace breaking down in the middle of winter. To conclude, not only will regular servicing save you money on your electricity bill, but it could protect you from hefty repair costs in the long run.
Change Your Routine, Change your Electricity Bill
Do you think about how your daily activities effect your electricity bill? When you leave a room, do you turn off the lights? Do you wash your dishes by hand, or use a dishwasher? Lastly, do you adjust your thermostat when you’re not in the house? Actively thinking about your usage is one of the easiest ways to cut back on your electricity bill. Additionally, it doesn’t cost you a dime. Here are a few tips and tricks to cutting your bill this winter.
Turn Down Your Thermostat
During the winter months, people are quick to turn up the heat. It is not always necessary. Instead, take a look at what you are wearing if you can – turn down the heat and put on a sweater. By decreasing the temperature by 2 degrees, you can save up to $180 a year on your electricity bill.
Fill Up Your Dishwasher
Today, research shows that machines do a better job and use less water. However, it is important to make sure it is full before starting. Dishwashers are more energy and water efficient than hand-washing. With that being said, you must make sure they are full. Running your dishwasher constantly without it being full, proves to do the opposite.
Use Your Curtains
You may think that curtains are only used for privacy. But, they are also useful for helping control the temperature of your home. Firstly, you can close your curtains at night to create an extra layer of insulation. Alternatively, you should keep them open during the day to let natural heat from the sun inside.
The weather outside is frightful, but your electricity bill doesn’t have to be. In this article, we have given you some options and tools to lower your costs this winter. We suggest you cuddle up, stay warm, and make sure to call us if we can be of any help to you and your family during these cold Canadian winters!
