Ways to Save On Your Energy Bill

4 Tips to Try This Summer

By Hannah Brennan

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Texas is the largest energy-consuming state in every sector across the nation. In 2021, the average of Texas residents paid $144.90 before taxes on their electricity bill every month, via eia.gov. We’ve compiled a list of 4 ways to reduce your energy consumption and, in turn, lower your electricity bill.

1. Check on air leaks

Money could literally be slipping out of your doors and windows. However, there are ways to combat this problem and save your money. Energystar.gov suggests sealing air leaks throughout your home for up to a 25% reduction in air loss. The article emphasizes focusing on the leaks flowing up to attic space, through the foundation, around windows and doors, and cool air escaping from ductwork in the attic.

How do you detect where your home’s biggest air leaks are?

While you could hire a professional to conduct an energy assessment on your home, looking for gaps in areas like electrical outlets, baseboards, fans and vents is an easier (and cheaper) alternative. Below are photos from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs depicting the typical flux of air and leaks in a house.

                   *photos courtesy of Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs

After you identify the main air leaks in your home, use caulk and weatherstripping material to seal those areas. Leaks in your air duct are trickier to solve on your own, but account for almost 20% of conditioned air. Therefore, it could be worthwhile to contact your licensed Central Texas technician to learn more about professional duct sealing.

2. Unplug phantom power

Phantom power describes the electricity drawn from appliances and devices when they’re plugged in, even when they’re not in use. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates 75% of the electricity used in devices like gaming consoles, televisions, and laptops is consumed when they aren’t even on. The solution? Unplug the devices you aren’t using and save an average of $100 a year.

More phantom power devices include:

• Hair dryers/curling irons
• Electric shavers
• Electric toothbrushes
• Coffee makers
• Microwaves
• Toaster ovens
• Smart speakers

3. Switch to energy-efficient light bulbs

Light bulbs account for about 5% of our total energy consumption. Other than turning off lights in rooms not in use, replacing your most frequently used bulbs with energy efficient ones can save you up to $75 a year. We recommend either LEDs (light emitting diodes) or CFLs (compact fluorescent lights) for maximum efficiency.

• • • • • LEDs →  use 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer*
        • CFLs →  use 75% less energy and last up to 6-15 times longer*

                                * than traditional incandescent bulbs

4. Use programmable thermostat

A basic programmable thermostat can cost as little as $20, while reducing your monthly electric bill. This provides an easy and profitable investment you don’t even have to think about after setting it up properly. A programmable thermostat can save you about 10% on heating and cooling, estimated by the U.S. Department of Energy.

Here is a schedule from energy.gov for maximum energy savings:

Ensure your schedule includes setting your thermostat in its energy-saving temperature for at least 8 hours every day. Also try to avoid changing the temperature during these 8 hours. Lastly, if you have multiple heating or cooling zones make certain to use separate programmable thermostat for each zone. By following these 4 ways to save on your energy bill, you can save hundreds in just one year.

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

contact us at Malek Service Company or schedule an estimate.