Drafty windows, poor insulation and all those electronic gadgets filling your home soak up energy like a sponge. Slashing your electric bills means looking at where you're losing energy and patching up those energy drains. Those with an interest in eco-friendly living appreciate the preservation of nonrenewable resources and reduced pollution that comes with reducing your energy usage. The little changes add up to big energy savings over time. Adjust your habits and make small improvements to your home to reduce your electric bills in a big way.
Call your electric company to ask about an energy audit program. Most companies offer a free audit to help you find ways to save energy, which will lower your electric bills. Take notes on the specific suggestions for your home.
Shut down your electronic devices when you're not using them. Items such as computers, TVs and cell phone chargers pull energy even when the item isn't in use. If you don't want to mess around with unplugging the cords each time, use a power strip with an "off" and "on" switch.
Seal up gaps around the home with foam sealant, which expands to fit the gap. Use the sealant around windows, doors, baseboard, trim and other areas that leak air.
Blow in insulation in the attic, walls and basement of the home, particularly if it was built before 1980. Rolls of insulation are also an option.
Check the fireplace damper whenever it's not in use. Close the damper tightly or use an inflatable chimney balloon, which prevents air loss through the chimney.
Light only the rooms currently in use. Get in the habit of flipping off the light when you leave a room.
Air-dry your dishes and your clothing when possible. The high heat needed to dry these items in the clothes dryer or dishwasher uses a lot of electricity so you'll cut your bill by air-drying.
Fill your refrigerator and freezer to help it run at peak efficiency. Empty space makes the appliance work harder to stay cool. Fill jugs with water if you need to take up empty space.
Landscape your home to maximize the energy-efficiency of your home. Use trees, shrubs and vines to shade the home and block wind.
Choose energy-efficient appliances when it 's time to upgrade your old models. Look for the Energy Star label to make sure you're getting an efficient appliance.
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