How to Have a Lower Electric Bill

You open your mailbox, and immediately your spirits drop. It's the day your electric bill comes. While electricity is probably something you would be hard pressed to live without, that doesn't mean there is nothing you can do about your monthly bill. Follow these steps and next month you might be surprised.

Things You'll Need

• Air filters
• Clothesline
• Programmable thermostat
• Empty milk jugs
• Power cords

Instructions

1. Change your air filter at least once every month. This is especially true if you have an electric a/c and heat pump. This will help your unit run better and use less electricity. Need a reminder? Change it when you receive your electric bill each month!

2. Dry your laundry in consecutive loads if you have an electric dryer. This way the dryer doesn't cool down between loads, and your clothes will dry faster. Better yet, use a clothesline for free!

3. Install a programmable thermostat. This will allow your air conditioner or heater to run less while you are away from home or sleeping.

4. Keep your refrigerator and freezer as full as you can. The food acts as insulation, so the units don't have to work as hard. If you have a less-than-full chest freezer, fill it up with milk jugs two-thirds full of water.

5. Unplug appliances and other items that use electricity even when they are off. These include TVs, computers, stereos and some kitchen appliances. For a simple way to do this, plug the items into a power cord or surge suppressor and then just turn off the power cord switch when the item is not in use.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact your electric company and request an energy audit. Most electric companies will check out your home for free and show you more ways to save electricity.

Resources

• Analyse Your Electricity Use