Cutting Power to These Devices Slashed My Electric Costs by $100
In today's world, the rising costs of gas, electricity, and water have become a source of stress for many households. According to a recent survey, almost eight out of ten adults are concerned about their utility bills. However, there are several simple steps you can take to reduce these costs and make your home more energy-efficient.
One of the most straightforward ways to save on electricity costs is by turning off lights and adjusting the ideal temperature for your home. Additionally, turning down your water heater can also lead to significant savings. Investing in energy-efficient products such as LED light bulbs and smart thermostats can provide long-term savings.
Another important factor to consider is the standby power that many devices consume even when they're not in use. Known as 'phantom load,' this phenomenon can account for 5% to 10% of residential energy use, according to the Department of Energy. Unplugging electronics when they're not in use, such as TVs, set-top boxes, media players, and other infrequently used devices, can help conserve energy.
The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) published a study finding that reducing the load from always-on devices could save consumers $8 billion annually and avoid using 64 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity per year. The NRDC estimated the cost of always-on devices at up to $165 per household per year on average.
Plugging devices into surge protectors or using timers or smart plugs can make the process of cutting phantom load more automatic. Smart plugs can help control the power on virtually any device you plug in. Energy Star products are rated to have lower standby power use compared to non-rated products.
Household appliances still use energy even when they are turned off but still plugged in, according to Energy.gov. Devices that may still use energy include those with displays, computers in sleep mode, chargers, media players, phones with displays, and smart home appliances. Unplugging these devices when they're not in use can help save energy and reduce your electricity bills.
Reducing the load from always-on devices would prevent 44 million metric tons of carbon dioxide pollution, making it a win-win situation for both your wallet and the environment. Additionally, reviewing guides on turning off lights, ideal home temperature, quick tips for saving on gas and electric bills, and other money-saving tips can help further reduce utility expenses.
By taking these simple steps, you can make a significant impact on your energy consumption and utility costs. Start today and enjoy the benefits of a more energy-efficient and cost-effective home.
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