-
Step 1
UNPLUG appliances and electronics. Appliances and electronics account for 20% of the average household electric bill. Washers, dryers, water heaters, televisions, DVD players, VCRs, computers, etc. still use energy even when they're turned off. So unplug them when they're not in use.
-
Step 2
CHANGE the time of day you use the washing machine and dishwasher. These high power machines use quite a bit of energy. Perhaps the best time to do laundry and wash dishes is during off-peak energy hours. For example, between the hours of 8 p. m. and noon. (See warning below).
-
Step 3
WASH full loads. Whether you're doing laundry or washing dishes make sure the washing machine and dishwasher are filled to capacity. Let the dishes air dry. And whenever possible let your clothes air dry as well.
-
Step 4
REDUCE hot water usage. For example, wash clothes in cold or warm water. Wash clothes in hot water only when necessary. Heating water consumes 14%-25% of the energy in most homes.
-
Step 5
SET the temperature of your electric water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Most manufacturers set the water heaters to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. You can save between 3%-5% on energy costs for every 10 degree reduction.
-
Step 6
TURN off the lights. Only turn on the lights when you need them. Lighting accounts for about 15% of electricity usage in a household.
-
Step 7
CALL the electric company. Have the electric come to your house to do a maintenance and evaluation check on your meter. This is a way of making sure your meter is working properly.
Comments
survivoryea said
on 10/10/2009 Really good tips to cut down on the use of electricity-5*
mkh1958 said
on 10/10/2009 Excellent article on saving money on your electric bill! ***** & recommendation