As home air conditioning use rises with summer heat waves, your monthly energy bill will also start to climb. That’s why now is the right time to start thinking about how you can use less electricity and save some cash.
At A-1 Electric, we have bucket truck services in Bucks County that will save you from summer power outages. We can also help you bring down your electric bill with these five tips:
Shut Your Curtains
When you keep your curtains closed on a sunny day, you can reduce incoming heat by up to 30%. That might be the difference between turning on the AC and staying comfortable without it. You might also choose to invest in solar shades or curtains, which are available at most hardware stores.
Regularly Change Your Air Filters
Your HVAC system’s air filters will become clogged over time, which makes your AC work harder and use more energy. Most homeowners should change their filters every three months. If you have pets, however, you should change it every two months.
Plug in a Few Power Strips
According to the Department of Energy, home electronics use the most electricity when they’re turned off. You can stop this energy drain by unplugging electronics or plugging them into a power strip. Regularly turn off your power strips when you leave the house, and watch your energy bill nosedive.
Do Your Laundry With Cold Water
You can save up to 50% in energy costs by washing your clothes in cold water. Unless you’re dealing with a particularly dirty load of laundry, cold settings will clean it just as well as hot options. Cold water is also gentler on your clothes, preserving their color and preventing shrinkage.
Switch Your Light Bulbs to LEDs
Pick up a pack of LED light bulbs, and they will quickly pay for themselves. LEDs can last twenty times as long as incandescent bulbs and save you more than 70% in energy costs. Additionally, unlike fluorescents, these environmentally-friendly light bulbs cast a soft and warm light.
Is Your Energy Bill Still Making Your Eyes Pop Out?
If your monthly bill is still sky-high, it’s possible that there is an issue with your home’s wiring. For example, a short in your circuit breaker can drain power and raise your bill.
Fortunately, the master electricians at A-1 Electric offer skilled electrical services, including routine repairs and parking lot lighting installation near Philadelphia. We also provide third party electrical inspections — though we can’t inspect our own work. Give us a call today at 800-401-6114!
