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5 Creative Ways To Trim Your Electric Bill

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Depending on where you live, electricity rates can be sky high. Saving a few bucks each month can enable you to spend more time and money having fun with your family. One way to save would be to compare electricity rates, or you could try some of these creative ways to shave dollars off your monthly energy bill.

1. Use light paint colors.

If you've ever worn a black outfit on a hot day, you'll know that dark colors attract and retain heat. This is also true for your home. If your home has a dark roof and/or paint, then it is attracting a lot of heat. Take into consideration where you live and how this may affect your summer cooling system. Using light paint colors inside your home may also help save money. When a room is light, you don't need to have the lights on as often.

2. Replace appliances.

New refrigerators, dishwashers, and washers and dryers are much more energy efficient than appliance made over a decade ago. These appliances are also usually much safer due to their advanced electronics and grounded electrical sockets. Some states like California have programs in place to help families and businesses defray the cost of upgrading appliances. Calculate how much money you could save by replacing old appliances.

3. Reinforce windows.

Old, damaged, or drafty windows will greatly affect your energy bill by allowing hot and cool air to leave your home quicker. An easy way to remedy this is to add caulking to your doors and window to help seal your home. If your windows are worse for wear, upgrade to energy efficient window panes. If you are building or renovation your home, consider adding southern facing windows to optimize natural heating.

4. Buy energy efficient products.

You have probably seen the Energy Star labels on certain appliances, but you may not know what this actually refers to. Energy Star is a program developed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of the United States government. The program rates products based on their energy efficiency and environmental impact. Purchasing Energy Star sponsored products can save you up to $600 per year. Some energy efficient products everyone can easily upgrade are your light bulbs. Buying compact florescent lights will last longer, cut your energy costs, and produce less waste.

5. Consider alternative energy sources.

Adding asolar or wind power system to your home can save you a lot of money in the long run. The initial cost of building thee systems can be quite high—a residential solar system can cost between $15,000 and $40,000—they also can decrease your energy bill to $0. Calculate how much money you spend on electricity each year to determine whether or not this price is feasible for you.


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