Reducing Energy Bills With Behavioral Changes & Investing In Energy-Efficient Tech!
Lower APS electric bill can be significantly achieved through two main strategies: behavioral adjustments and investing in energy-efficient technology.
Behavioral Adjustments
Making changes to how you use electricity daily can have an immediate impact on reducing your energy consumption.
Here are some simple yet effective ways to modify your behavior:
- Turn Off Lights When Not in Use: It’s an old tip but always worth repeating. Turning off lights in unoccupied rooms saves energy.
- Unplug Devices: Devices left plugged in, even when turned off, can still draw power (known as phantom loads). Unplug electronics when they are not in use.
- Adjust Your Thermostat: Setting your thermostat a few degrees lower in winter and higher in summer can reduce your heating and cooling costs significantly.
- Use Appliances Efficiently: Run your dishwasher and washing machine only when they are full. Try to use these appliances during off-peak energy hours to take advantage of lower rates.
- Air Dry Clothes: Instead of using a dryer, hang clothes to air dry. This not only saves energy but also extends the life of your clothing.
Investing in Energy-Efficient Technology
Investing in modern, energy-efficient technology can have a larger upfront cost but pays off in the long-term savings on your electric bill:
- LED Bulbs: Replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs, which use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer.
- Energy Star Appliances: When it’s time to replace old appliances, choose Energy Star-certified products that consume less electricity.
- Smart Thermostats: These devices can learn your schedule and temperature preferences, and adjust your home’s heating and cooling without you having to think about it.
- Solar Panels: Although an initial investment is high, solar panels can dramatically reduce your electric bill and provide you with a sustainable source of power.
- Insulation and Windows: Improving your home’s insulation and upgrading to energy-efficient windows help maintain your home’s temperature, reducing the need for heating and cooling.
By combining daily behavioral changes with investments in energy-efficient technologies, you can enjoy substantial savings by lower APS electric bill while also contributing to environmental conservation.