Increasing your home’s energy efficiency (and decreasing your monthly utility bills) is a great way to stretch your household’s budget. Learn how Ocala area homeowners can reduce their energy consumption with minor changes to daily habits and major appliance swaps.
Five Free Ways to Lower Your Energy Bill
Energy-conscious habits and technology can make it easy to reduce household utility bills. Minor changes can significantly reduce the average home's energy use. Here are some no-cost ways to improve your home's energy efficiency.
1. Adjust your thermostat.
Home heating and cooling systems account for more than 40% of the average utility bill, so adjusting how you use them is the best way to reduce energy waste. For example, adjusting your thermostat by7 to 10 degrees at night can save you 10% or more on your yearly heating and cooling costs!
2. Unplug electronics.
The average US household spends $165 annually on "phantom load" or "vampire power." This refers to the electricity that plugged-in electronics draw, even when turned off. Although small, this power drain from unused electronics can add up over time.
3. Adjust your water heater.
The default setting for many water heaters is 140 degrees F, and most homeowners never change it. Lowering the temperature to 120 degrees reduces scalding risk and can save 4% to 22% on energy bills, which could be up to $400 annually.
4. Use natural heating and cooling.
Never underestimate ancient technologies like the humble curtain and window. These age-old home fixtures can be used to your advantage.
- Open curtains during sunny winter days to utilize the sun's warmth.
- Close curtains during summer days to keep the heat out.
- Catch the Atlantic Ocean breeze! Open and close windows as needed for natural air circulation and temperature regulation.
These habits will allow you to use your HVAC system a little less frequently without being uncomfortable.
5. Turn off the lights.
Get in the habit of turning lights off when you leave a room, and make use of natural light whenever possible. Keeping the lights off during the day or when not in use can add up to significant savings over time.
More Ways to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
One of the best ways to lower your energy bill is to replace inefficient, dated technology with modern equipment. For example, heat pumps are up to three times more efficient than traditional gas furnaces. While replacing a well-functioning furnace may not make sense, your Patrick’s Heating & Air Conditioning technician can help you decide when the potential savings outweigh the expenditure.
When replacing HVAC equipment or old appliances, select ENERGY STAR-certified products, as they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines.
ENERGY STAR-certified products include:
- Air conditioners
- Furnaces
- Heat pumps
- Kitchen appliances
Read more: How to Address Poor Indoor Air Quality
How Much Energy Does the Average Home Use?
The average household in the United States uses around 10,800 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually, translating to approximately 899 kWh per month. Energy consumption can differ significantly depending on the size of the home and its location. For instance, larger homes typically consume more energy. This trend of increased energy consumption in the US has been observed over several decades.
Other factors affecting home energy use include:
Age of the home
Appliance use
Climate
Number of household occupants
Reducing electricity consumption from sources like air conditioning and lighting results in immediate financial savings because electricity typically costs slightly more than natural gas. Saving electricity benefits both your wallet and the environment!
We’re Ocala’s Energy Efficiency Experts
Energy efficiency is simply too important to leave unaddressed. We're here to help with fast, affordable energy efficiency recommendations. Our friendly, professional technicians will always make informed recommendations and complete your HVAC work correctly the first time!
To schedule HVAC, electrical, or plumbing services in Ocala, Huntington, and the surrounding areas, call 352-329-3740 or contact us online.