How to Lower Electric Bills Through Energy Efficiency

With the ever rising cost of energy we are all seeking means with which to reduce the amount we use, thereby reducing the amount that we have to pay the gas and electric Company. There are hundreds of methods to reduce the amount that you use and many are right under your nose. Every watt that you save is one less watt that you have to pay for; make your family energy conscience and you will be able to save hundreds a year.

Things You'll Need

• Power Strip
• Pre-programable thermostat
• Fluorescent light bulbs

Instructions

Save energy, Save Money

1. Air dry your dishes. Almost every home now has a dish washer, and we have become a society of convenience. Throwing just a few dishes into the dishwasher and turning it saves you time, but you are spending a good deal to run that dishwasher. If you only have a few dishes from breakfast, wash them out in the sink and let those babies air dry. You will be saving money, and you can put the dried dishes away when you come home from work.

2. Learn to use power strips. They are excellent at reducing the amount of wasted money and wasted energy. Plug home electronics such as TVs, DVD players, computers and printers into a power strip. To turn off the device, turn off the entire power strip. Even if your computer is turned off it is still drawing electrical current that you are paying for.

3. Buy a programmable thermostat. These can be purchases from your local home remodeling center, Lowe's, Wal Mart, Home Depot and others. The thermostat is easy to install. Then set the thermostat for a pre-programmed setting. By doing this you will not have to be returning and readjusting the thermostat. If the day cools off or heats up, you will have a steady temperature within your home and it will be maintained.

4. Lower the thermostat on your hot water heater to 120 degrees F. By doing this you will be saving energy and still have hot water.

5. Change your lighting fixtures. Use compact fluorescent light bulbs. You can purchase these at virtually any home or grocery store.

6. Train your family to turn things off. When you do not need the kitchen light on, turn it off. All those lights on in the house are draining your energy and you are paying for it dearly

Tips & Warnings

• Train your family to look around at the items that they use. There is no reason for junior to be standing in front of the refrigerator with the door open for five minutes while he decides what he wants. Be conscience of how you use your energy and you will be able to save a ton of money each year.