10 Ways to Save on your New Home’s Electricity Bill: Part 1

By Brooke, May 11, 2010, Save Money

Moving to a new home is typically very exciting. However, there is one item in particular that isn’t fun (aside from the packing). It’s the cost associated with connecting services like electricity, cable, internet, etc. to your new home. It’s not only frustrating but can be expensive. One way to combat those inevitable costs is to start saving in other areas, like your electricity bill. So, here are some steps you can to take to save on your future energy bills.

1. Programmable thermostats.  A programmable thermostat can save on heating and cooling costs because it can be set for multiple daily settings and can adjust when the outside temperature changes. According to one energy saver site, this can attribute to as much as 20-30% in savings.

2. Install/ Use ceiling fans.  During the warmer months, try setting you’re air conditioner higher and turn on your ceiling fans.  The moving air tends to feel cooler and at a higher temperature, you’re a/c should run less, thus using less energy. If your home doesn’t contain ceiling fans, they can be installed by an electrician or by yourself.

3. CFL’s (compact fluorescent lamps).  Install CFLs instead of the standard incandescent bulbs. They can actually use up to 75% less energy than regular bulbs and they last longer too.

4. Energy-efficient appliances.  They cost a little more in the beginning but can save you money on your monthly bill. Check your local government to see if any rebates are being offered for replacing old appliances with new Energy Star items.

5. Hot water jackets.  Heating water is one of the larger home-energy consumers. A tip is to buy a hot water jacket. This is a fairly simple and inexpensive way to insulate your water heater and according to the US Department of Energy can reduce standby heat losses by 25%-45%. Just be sure to choose one with an insulating value of at least R-8.

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