6 Smart Ways To Save On Electricity This Winter

by Team HomeServe Electrical  
Energy saving light bulb and dollar bills

Though the holiday season has come to an end, many homeowners still want to make sure their houses are bright and cozy throughout the remaining winter months. However, doing so could result in higher electricity bills.

Fortunately, it doesn't have to be that way. Cost-conscious homeowners can help keep their electric costs down with just a few simple changes to their everyday routine.

Here are 6 year-long steps that could help you save on energy:

  1. Make sure lights, appliances and other items are turned off as much as possible 
    One way to save on electricity is to think about your home and what items are left running all day long. 

    For example, consistently leaving lights, televisions, computers and other appliances on around the house can be costly - especially when no one is around to use them. Although doing so is common, small efforts to curtail this practice can go a long way. 

    Moreover, continuing to run winter light displays after the holiday season can lead to higher electric bills, but keeping lights on a timer can lessen the expense. To reduce energy - and the cost of bills - in the future, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends replacing older light displays with those that use LEDs instead

  2. Swap out old bulbs for newer, energy-efficient options 
    Energy efficiency has become a buzzword in recent years, and for good reason. 

    Newer, more efficient bulb models not only cost about the same as traditional incandescent varieties, but they also last much longer and use less energy, according to Chronicle Live

  3. Operate appliances and electronics during non-peak hours 
    It’s common for homeowners to complete certain responsibilities - like laundry, washing dishes or turning the heater up - during specific times of the day. Electric companies know this and charge more for energy use during those peak hours. 

    As a result, try operating appliances and electronics during non-peak times to lower your electric bill. This means weekends, holidays and between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., as well as after 9 p.m., according to USA Today

  4. Upgrade your older appliances if you can 
    If you have any older appliances in your home - refrigerators, washers and dryers, electric stoves or TVs - it might be time to invest in an upgraded model that uses less electricity, according to Money Magazine. Although it comes with a sizable up-front cost, the long-term energy savings could be significant, as these devices are used on a more regular basis. 

  5. Find greater efficiency when washing 
    Many homeowners often choose to do small loads of laundry or run the dishwasher when it's not full. While this can be convenient, it's also a waste of energy. Experts recommend filling up a washing machine, dishwasher or dryer with a full load before running it, according to Green Living Online

    Plus, dishwashers use less water and clean every plate, pan, bowl and piece of silverware better than washing by hand. 

  6. Get "smart" 
    It's wise to invest in "smart" electronics that enable you to control devices, thermostats, lighting and more from any location with just an internet connection. If you get to work and realize you forgot to turn the TV off or left the light in the bathroom on, you can easily use your phone to shut it off. This technology can help you save not only money, but also any unnecessary worry. 

When dealing with any electrical issues, a home repair plan is a good idea to help you pay for covered emergency repair costs. To learn more about the plans available in your area, enter your ZIP code here.

Related Articles