How to Save Electricity and Cut Your Electric Bill

In this article you will learn the best ways to save electricity and, as a result, cut you electric bill.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. 

   CHANGE YOU LIGHT BULBS
   By replacing incandescent bulbs with CFLs (compact fluorescent)you will use about 75% less energy and the CFLs will last about 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs.

2. 

   USE MOTION SENSORS & TIMERS
   By using motion sensors you only use the electricity when you need it. Timers are great for energy savings as well, use them to control things like bathroom fans so they automatically shut off and you wont have to remember to go back and shut it off.

3. 

   BUY ENERGY STAR APPLIANCES
   Look for the energy star label when you buy appliances, it tells you that the appliance meets strict standards for energy efficiency. Energy Star says that appliances bearing its label can cut energy bills by 30%.

4. 

   USE POWER STRIPS
   According to the Department of Energy, 75% of the electrical use by home electronics occurs when they are turned off. You can unplug the appliances when they are not being used, or use electrical outlet power strips and simply flip the switch to "off".

5. 

   CHANGE FURNACE FILTERS
   Make your furnace run efficiently and prolong your furnace's life by regularly changing your furnace filter. A clogged filter makes the furnace motor work harder and use more power.

6. 

   MAINTAIN YOUR REFRIDGERATOR
   Refrigerators use more electricity than all your other appliances combined, by doing a few simple things you can keep it running efficiently for years and save electricity. Clean the coils twice a year, keep refrigerator settings at about 35 degrees, keep freezer settings at about 0 to 5 degrees, and make sure the door seals are tight. Your the "dollar bill test" on your seals, close it in your door and if it pulls out easily its time to replace the seal.

Resources

• Energy Star
• The Department of Energy