Lowering your monthly utility bill is a great way to save money. Homeowners in Atlanta can do this by making their homes more energy-efficient. There are several ways to achieve this without upgrading your home’s HVAC equipment. But when it is time to replace an appliance, upgrading to energy-efficient technologies may be more affordable than you think.
How to Save Money on Your Energy Bill (for Free!)
Looking to lower your energy bill? Minor changes to your household’s energy consumption can easily achieve significant savings. Enhance your home's energy efficiency by combining energy-conscious habits with technology. Here are five simple ways to get started.
1. Adjust your thermostat.
Heating and cooling systems are responsible for more than 40% of the average utility bill. Saving money and energy is as easy as adjusting your thermostat. You can save 10% or more per year on heating and cooling costs by simply adjusting your thermostat down 7-10 degrees at night.
2. Unplug electronics.
Even when turned off, plugged-in electronics draw a small amount of electricity. Sometimes referred to as “phantom load” or “vampire power,” unused electronics add up; the average US household spendsabout $165 annually powering devices that aren’t in use.
3. Adjust your water heater temperature.
Many water heaters are set to 140 degrees F by default, and most homeowners never think to adjust them. Lowering your water heater temperature to 120 degrees will reduce the risk of scalding and can also save you between 4% and 22% on your energy bills—up to $400 a year!
4. Use natural heating and cooling.
Leverage simple, age-old techniques to boost your home's energy efficiency. Open your curtains on sunny winter days to welcome the warmth of the sun, and close them during summer to block its heat. Strategically open and close windows to utilize natural ventilation to regulate indoor temperatures. Over time, these practices will lessen your reliance on your HVAC system.
5. Shut off the lights.
Get into the habit of turning off lights when you leave a room and make the most of daytime, natural light. Over the course of the year, this simple change will lead to a decrease in your energy consumption.
More Ways to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
Choose to ENERGY STAR-certified appliances when it’s time to replace existing HVAC equipment. ENERGY STAR-certified products, like furnaces and air conditioners, meet strict energy efficiency guidelines.
When the opportunity exists, opt for newer technologies, like heat pumps, to replace traditional appliances. For example, a heat pump may be as much as three times more efficient than a traditional gas furnace. Consult your local Assured Comfort Heating, Air & Plumbing technician to determine if upgrading your equipment is the right decision for your household.
Read more: How to Address Poor Indoor Air Quality
How Much Energy Does the Average Home Use?
The average US household uses around 10,800 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually, which translates to roughly 899 kWh per month. However, energy consumption varies based on factors like home size, age, appliance usage, climate, and the number of occupants. Larger homes and increased appliance use typically result in higher energy usage (and bills).
Meet Atlanta’s Energy Efficiency Experts
Maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home is easier than you might think. The experienced technicians at Assured Comfort Heating, Air & Plumbing can help you identify and implement cost-effective upgrades to improve your home's energy efficiency and lower your utility bills.
Call 770-464-5745 orcontact us online to schedule HVAC, electrical, or plumbing services in Douglasville, Atlanta, and the surrounding areas.