Keeping your electric bill low is a challenge that everyone faces, and you have more control over this problem than you think. The following tips will help you do this easily, and can make a significant difference in your energy bill.
1)Your central air unit is the basic instrument of temperature control in your environment, and unfortunately a major problem for many. The key to making it help you lower your energy bill depends on how you treat it. By keeping the unit outside of your home rather than inside attached to the window, you will enhance its function. You also want to keep it free from debris and clutter, cleaning it frequently throughout the year, even in the winter, when it should also be kept covered to protect it from the elements.
2)Many people do not realize how much air flow occurs around windows and doors. They are frequently used, and this allows air to flow in and out. When not in use and not sealed properly, windows and doors can drastically change the air temperature in the room. You can keep a tight reign on this by blocking any air that might be flowing. Windows throughout the house should be covered with plastic, and doors should be sealed around the frame. Although this can be a time consuming process, you'll be glad you did when you see the difference in your bill.
3)There may also be hidden gaps around doors and windows. Often small cracks will allow air in and out of the house. Simply sealing them will make a big difference. Even the smallest crack, over time, can make a difference on your final bill.
4)On hot days when temperatures exceed 90 degrees, areas of the home that are lit by bright sunlight can turn any air conditioned room into a sauna. Make sure to close your drapes, blinds and windows to keep the house significantly cooler by just simply blocking the sun from entering the house.
5)An area
of the home that is not often thought of, but where a significant volume of air can transfer is the attic. The attic can either capture rising air or allow large amounts of it to escape. This can have a significant effect on your bill throughout the year. Insulating your attic as much as possible can be a major cost saver. If you have access to the attic, check over the area for spaces that can be filled in with additional insulation and have it blown in. You can also lay the insulation out by hand if that works better for your attic space. Insulation rolls are readily available at most hardware stores.
6)There are always areas of your living space that are not used as much as others. Some rooms are rarely used, if ever. Assess what rooms are least used and close them off during extreme hot or cold periods. This will help keep the hot and cold air where you want it, in the areas that you frequently occupy. The more you close off the unused areas, the more control you will have with the overall air in your home.
7)Using florescent bulbs can make a big difference. Florescent bulbs only use 20 watts of electricity, rather than the other types of bulbs that use much more. They also put out as much light as a 75 watt bulb. The distribution of light will be the same and you won't feel as though your living space is darker. The bulbs cost about seven dollars and will last longer than regular bulbs.
8)Get a timer for your thermostat. This will allow you to control when you turn your heating and cooling units on and off. If you are gone most of the day, you can set the timer to turn on an hour before you arrive. This will allow time to get the room to a comfortable temperature.
These simple tips will make a lasting effect your electrical bill.
Author Resource:-
John Brouster is the owner of http://www.servicetechelectric.com a licensed
Electrician in St Louis providing high quality installations for homeowners and commercial customers. Service Tech Electric is licensed in St. Louis city and county. Service Tech Electric also installs generators, surge protectors and elelctrical panel upgrades. The company can be reached by calling 314-524-1811.
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