Easy Ways to Save Money on Your Energy Bill

By Sherri Walbeck

     Did you know that Texas uses more energy than any other state in the US? That’s a lot of electricity! And it can cost a pretty penny too. On average, Texas residents pay about $144.90 a month for electricity. But don’t worry, we’ve got some tips to help you lower that bill and save money!

1. Check for Air Leaks

     Did you know that air can escape from your house through tiny gaps and cracks? It’s like throwing money out the window! But don’t worry, you can fix this problem. Sealing air leaks in your home can reduce air loss by up to 25%. So where should you look for these leaks?

     You can start by checking for gaps around electrical outlets, baseboards, fans, and vents. These are common places where air can sneak out. You can also look for leaks in your attic, windows, doors, and air ducts. If you find any leaks, you can use caulk or weatherstripping to seal them up. If you’re not sure how to fix the leaks in your air ducts, it’s best to ask a professional for help.

2. Unplug Phantom Power

     Did you know that some devices use electricity even when they’re not turned on? It’s called phantom power, and it can really add up. In fact, about 75% of the electricity used by devices like gaming consoles, TVs, and laptops is consumed when they’re not in use. That’s a lot of wasted energy!

     To save money, make sure to unplug these devices when you’re not using them. Some other devices that use phantom power include hair dryers, electric shavers, electric toothbrushes, coffee makers, microwaves, toaster ovens, and smart speakers. By unplugging these devices, you can save an average of $100 a year!

3. Switch to Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs

     Did you know that light bulbs use up about 5% of our total energy consumption? That’s a lot of energy for just a little bit of light. But don’t worry, there’s a way to save money on lighting too. By replacing your old light bulbs with energy-efficient ones, you can save up to $75 a year!

     We recommend using LED (light emitting diode) or CFL (compact fluorescent light) bulbs. These bulbs use 75% less energy and last a lot longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. So not only will you save money, but you’ll also help the environment!

4. Use a Programmable Thermostat

     Did you know that you can save money on heating and cooling by using a programmable thermostat? It’s true! A programmable thermostat can cost as little as $20, but it can save you a lot of money in the long run.

    Here’s how it works. You can set your thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature when you’re not home or when you’re sleeping. This way, you’re not wasting energy on heating or cooling an empty house. The US Department of Energy estimates that a programmable thermostat can save you about 10% on your heating and cooling costs.

     So make sure to set your thermostat to an energy-saving temperature when you’re away from home or asleep. And if you have multiple heating or cooling zones in your house, consider using a separate programmable thermostat for each zone. By following these simple tips, you can save hundreds of dollars on your energy bill every year!

If you have an inquiry about professional energy saving options like programmable thermostats,

contact us at Malek Service Company or schedule an estimate.