How Can I Reduce My Electric Bill in 2021?

Many Houston residents are working from home in 2021 due to the ongoing pandemic. Because we’re home more, we’re using more electricity, and as such, our electric bills are higher. While it’s a good idea to conserve more energy for environmental reasons, most of us would like to reduce our electric bills. Here are some easy ways to make it happen.

Turn the Lights Off With Smart Plugs

Most of us can recall our parents telling us to turn the lights off when we were kids. We probably do the same thing with our own children. The fact is that it’s a great way to reduce your monthly energy bill. And while you can just flip the switch the old-fashioned way, smart plugs are the wave of the future. Smart plugs are a new exciting trend in home automation. If you find yourself on the other side of the house only to remember you forgot to turn off your bedroom light, easy peasy. You can turn the lights off with your smartphone or tell your clever smart speaker to do it. To really simplify things, you can set up a schedule so that the smart plugs turn certain lights off at the same time each day. Landscape lights really benefit from a smart lighting option as well. Solar lights, motion sensor lights, and timers can ensure that your outdoor lights don’t stay on during the day and come on automatically in the evening.

Unplug Appliances When You’re Not Using Them

Homeowners often leave many smaller appliances plugged in, especially computers, cell phone chargers, tablets, coffee makers, video games, blow dryers, and more. It’s an easy habit that many of us just developed over time. But, when we leave items plugged in, they still draw electricity. Every little bit helps! Just unplug appliances when it makes sense to do so.

Make the Switch to LED

LED light bulbs save on energy consumption but last longer than traditional bulbs. That means you don’t have to swap out your light bulbs as often. LED bulbs also yield a fairly bright light without emitting a lot of heat. Once you’ve made the switch to LED, you should notice the difference in your electric bill. Some homeowners have said that LED bulbs helped them lower their electric bills by around $200 per year.

Upgrade Appliances to Those Approved by Energy Star

Today’s newer appliances offer more energy efficiency than the older models. In fact, some power companies and local government agencies offer a credit to homeowners who upgrade their machines to more energy-efficient devices. Whenever you purchase an appliance, there are two cost considerations. The first is the actual price of the appliance, and the second is how much it costs to operate the machine. Look for appliances that have an ENERGY STAR rating or backing. They offer more in terms of savings for your pocketbook.

Have Your Electrical and Central Air Conditioning Systems Serviced

Anytime an appliance or your central a/c and heat has wear, it becomes less energy-efficient. This can cost you more on your electric bill. You’re more likely to notice the difference with your central air and heating system. When it doesn’t work properly, it runs longer and more often, resulting in a higher energy bill. But, maintaining your air conditioning unit and appliances can help keep energy bills lower. Replace your air conditioning filters regularly and have the system inspected each season. This will go a long way to ensuring your system runs efficiently and keeps your electrical bill within a reasonable range. It’s also a good idea to have an electrical inspection each year by a qualified and reputable electrician. Not only can this help lower your electric bill, but it will help keep you and your family safer.

The Takeaway

There are some easy things you can do on your own to lower your power bill. Using LED bulbs and unplugging appliances and electric cords that aren’t in use are a great start. Upgrades like smart plugs can also help you remotely control or program which lights should be turned off during the daytime or turned on in the evening. Upgrading appliances to an Energy Star-approved appliance is also wise.

But, by far, maintaining your electrical and air conditioning systems will do the most to ensure that your home is powered efficiently and running well so that your appliances don’t operate any more than they have to.

Contact Illuminations Lighting Design to have us analyze your electrical system for its energy efficiency and to see if there are more ways for you to save on your electric bill in 2021. Homeowners in Houston and the surrounding areas have relied on our expertise for almost 17 years. Our professional electricians will also make sure your electrical system is safe from potential dangers. Call us at 1-713-863-1133 to schedule your appointment today!