10 ways to reduce your electricity bill
As energy prices soar, do all you can to keep your bills down. The following 10 ways could help, says Rick Hoskin, founder of fresh air specialists Filter King.
Use energy-efficient appliances. When buying new household goods, whether a tumble dryer, dishwasher or kettle, look for the most energy efficient. Old appliances can often work in overdrive, meaning they can be one of the biggest factors in high electric costs.
2. Install a dimmer switch on your lights. Lights are one of the biggest contributors towards electricity bills, so installing one could turn down the cost.
3. Switch off your dishwasher’s heated drying system. Many people don’t realise their dishwasher heats the air to dry the dishes. By turning this setting off, your dishes will still dry but the cost will be lower.
4. Don’t overfill your fridge and freezer. The appliance has to work harder to keep food and drinks cold, eating up electricity.
5. Always wash and dry a full load of laundry. This reduces the times you need to use it.
6. Turn the stove off a few minutes before food is ready. The heat buildup in the oven will complete the cooking process.
7. Cook faster and cut electricity bills by keeping the lids on your pots and pans.
8. Insulate your hot water tank. While newer hot water tanks are generally insulated, older tanks are not. If yours is hot to the touch, it needs better insulation.
9. Wash your windows to let sunlight in during the day, then close your curtains to keep the cold out at night.
Lower your water heater’s temperature and turn down your thermostats a notch. You will save money and won’t notice the difference.