46 Ways to Lower Your Electric Bill

Reducing your monthly electric bill can seem daunting, but with some small changes and a bit of effort, you may be surprised at how much you can save. Here are 46 tips to help you lower your electric bill.

Audit Your Electric Usage and Look for Energy Hogs

The first step to lowering your electric bill is understanding where your energy usage is going.

Conduct an Electricity Audit

Go around your home and take notes on what is plugged in and how often those items are used. Pay special attention to items that are always drawing power even when turned “off” like TVs, cable boxes, and phone chargers.
Check the wattage of major appliances and electronics. The higher the wattage, the more energy used.
Use an energy monitor like Sense or Eyedro to identify energy hogs. Seeing real-time energy usage can help pinpoint issues.
Review electric bills and look for seasonal spikes. Is your bill much higher in summer or winter? You may need a more energy efficient AC or heating system.

Find and Unplug Energy Vampires

Energy vampires are devices that drain power even when not in use, like phone chargers, gaming consoles, and coffee makers.

Unplug chargers when not in use or use smart power strips that sense when devices are off. This can save up to 10% on your electric bill.
Unplug extra fridges and freezers if possible. A single inefficient model can cost over $100 yearly to run.
Switch off power strips fully when not in use to avoid standby power draw.

Upgrade Inefficient Appliances and Electronics

Appliances and electronics account for over 20% of a home’s energy use. Upgrading to more efficient models can bring significant savings.

Replace incandescent bulbs with LEDs which use at least 75% less energy.
Upgrade to ENERGY STAR certified major appliances when possible. Select energy efficient models when replacing old appliances.
Swap older TVs, computers, and gaming consoles for newer, more efficient models. Some can use 3-4 times less power.
Ensure your AC unit is sized properly for your home. Oversized units cost more to run.

Change How You Use Electricity in Your Home

Small changes in how you operate appliances and electronics can reduce your electric bill.

Only Run Dishwasher and Washer with Full Loads

Wait until you have full loads before running the dishwasher and clothes washer. This avoids the energy costs of running half-empty loads.
Scrape dishes instead of rinsing before loading into the dishwasher. Rinsing wastes water and the energy to heat it.
For clothes washers, use cold water settings whenever possible. Heating water accounts for 90% of washer energy costs.

Be Strategic About Laundry

Wash clothes in cold water using cold water detergents whenever possible. Use hot water only for very dirty loads.
Avoid using high heat drying settings. Use lower heat and run the dryer longer to save energy if needed.
Clean the lint trap before each load to improve air circulation and drying efficiency.
Hang dry clothes outside or on a drying rack when possible to avoid running the dryer.

Change the Way You Cook

Use lids on pots and pans to reduce cooking times when boiling or simmering foods. This retains heat better.
Cook with smaller appliances like slow cookers and toaster ovens when possible. They use less energy than stovetops and full size ovens.
Turn down the heat slightly near the end of cook times to avoid wasting energy once food is nearly cooked.
Match pan sizes to stove top burners. Small pans on large burners waste heat and energy.

Run Your Pool Pump Less

For those with pools, pumping and filtering water represents a major electric cost.

Reduce how often you run your pool pump. Most only need 6-8 hours daily maximum.
Set the pump on a timer to avoid running when not needed. Limit operation hours especially overnight.
Check if pump flow rates are set higher than needed. Reduce flow to save energy if possible.
Check for air leaks along hoses and connections that make the pump work harder.

Change Lighting Habits

Lights account for around 15% of the average home’s electric use. Changing lighting habits can make a difference.

Turn off lights in any room you aren’t using, especially at night and when away.
Rely on natural daylight instead of lights whenever possible. Open blinds and curtains to maximize daylight.
Install dimmers, smart lighting controls, and motion sensors to automatically turn off lights.
Consider using task lighting focused on where you need it instead of brightly lighting an entire room.

Lower Air Conditioning Usage

For many homes, air conditioning is one of the largest users of electricity in warm months. Try these tips to save.

Maintain Your AC Unit

Replace air filters monthly during heavy use seasons to allow airflow and improve efficiency.
Have a technician do a comprehensive maintenance check before summer. Tune ups ensure efficient operation.
Clear any debris or vegetation from around the outdoor compressor unit to allow maximum airflow.
Ensure ductwork is properly sealed to prevent leaks that make the AC work harder.

Adjust the Thermostat Strategically

Set the thermostat 2-3° higher in summer if comfortable doing so. Each degree higher saves about 3% on cooling costs.
Use a programmable or smart thermostat to raise temperatures when away and lower when home.
Set a smart thermostat to raise temperatures slightly in the afternoon when not home. The home will still be cool upon return.
Avoid dramatic thermostat adjustments. It’s more efficient to maintain moderate temperatures than to let the home get too hot or cold.

Improve Airflow and Circulation

Ceiling fans allow raising the thermostat higher while maintaining comfort. Use them to supplement AC.
Make sure ceiling fans are rotating the right direction for the season to either draw hot air up or push cool air down.
Keep interior doors open to improve airflow between rooms, especially when only part of the home is actively cooled.
Avoid blocking vents with furniture or objects so cooled air can properly circulate.

Control Heat From Sunlight

Close window coverings during the day to block solar heat, especially on south and west facing windows.
Install exterior window awnings or solar screens to reflect heat before it enters the home.
Plant trees strategically around the home for shading. A mature tree can reduce air conditioning costs by up to 30%.

Lower Heating Costs in Cold Weather

Heating your home likely represents your biggest energy costs in cold months. Try these tips to save.

Maintain Your Heating System

Have a professional inspect and tune up your heating system before winter. This keeps it operating efficiently.
Replace filters monthly during heavy use to allow proper airflow and reduce strain.
Bleed radiators to release trapped air that prevents them from heating efficiently.
Ensure radiators and baseboard heaters aren’t blocked by furniture or objects.

Strategize Thermostat Use

Lower the thermostat to around 68° in winter. For each degree lower, you can save up to 5% on heating costs.
Turn down thermostats at night and raise when home and awake. Wear extra layers in the mornings and evenings.
When away, set the thermostat about 5° lower than normal. The home will heat back up when you return.
Let sunlight naturally heat your home on cold sunny days by opening curtains and blinds.

Seal Air Leaks and Add Insulation

Caulk and weatherstrip around windows and doors to seal small gaps letting out heated air.
Ensure attic and floor insulation meets recommendations for your climate. Add more if needed.
Replace drafty old windows and doors with new energy efficient models to reduce air leaks.
Make sure unused chimneys are properly capped and sealed to avoid drafts.

Practice Zone Heating

Only heat rooms you actively use in winter. Close doors and vents to unused rooms.
Use a portable space heater in primary rooms you occupy instead of heating the whole house.
At night, just heat bedrooms and bathrooms you’ll use.
Use a programmable thermostat or smart vents to automatically zone heat your home.

Water Heating Tips

Water heating accounts for 15-25% of a home’s energy use. Try these tips to save.

Insulate Water Heater and Pipes

Ensure your water heater has properly installed insulation with an R-value around R-24. Add more if needed.
Insulate exposed hot water pipes to reduce heat loss before reaching faucets.

Lower the Temperature

Set the water heater temperature to around 120°F. This prevents scalding and reduces heat loss.
Further reduce the temperature when away on vacation or during mild seasons.

Change Usage Habits

Take 5 minute showers instead of baths which use 2-3 times more hot water.
Install low-flow showerheads to use less water to heat.
Fix any leaky faucets which waste hot water. A small drip can waste hundreds of gallons monthly.
Only run full loads in the dishwasher and clothes washer to conserve hot water.

Maintain the Water Heater

Drain some water from the tank annually to remove sediment that makes it less efficient.
Check that temperature and pressure relief valves don’t leak. Replace if needed.
Have a professional flush and inspect the water heater every 1-2 years.

Renewable Energy Options

Adding renewable energy sources like solar allows you to generate some or all of your own electricity.

Install Solar Panels

Solar panels can offset 50-100% of your electric usage, especially in sunny climates.
Take advantage of federal and local incentives, rebates, and tax credits to reduce installation costs.
Consider joining a community solar program if your roof isn’t suitable for panels.

Use Solar Water Heaters

Solar water heating systems can provide 70–80% of your hot water needs.
These are a cost effective option, even in cooler climates. They work year-round.
Some systems are eligible for a 30% federal tax credit to offset costs.

Harness Wind Power

Residential wind turbines can be ideal if you live in consistently windy areas.
Look for grants, incentives, and rebates to help with installation costs which can be $15,000-$80,000.
Consider joining a community wind program to invest in larger shared turbines.

Make Your Home More Efficient

Upgrading key systems and sealing your home can lead to significant energy savings.

Improve Insulation

Ensure insulation levels meet or exceed recommendations for your climate zone. Add more if needed.
Pay special attention to insulating attics, basements, garages, and crawl spaces properly.
Use advanced insulation materials like spray foam, radiant barriers, and insulated siding for maximum efficiency.

Upgrade HVAC Equipment

Replace very old central air units and furnaces with new ENERGY STAR models for 15-30% savings.
Install a programmable or smart thermostat to control temperatures efficiently based on your schedule.
Consider ground or air source heat pumps for heating and cooling from renewable sources.

Seal Air Leaks

Caulk and weatherstrip windows, doors, pipes, vents, and anywhere air leaks out.
Use foam sealants on larger gaps around chimneys, plumbing, wiring, and recessed lighting.
Consider hiring an energy auditor to do blower door tests and thermal imaging to pinpoint hidden leaks.

Switch to Triple Pane Windows

New triple pane windows provide excellent insulation, reducing heating and cooling costs.
Look for gas filled models with low-emissivity coatings to reflect heat back into the home.
Properly sealing window frames during installation also improves efficiency.

Shop for an Energy Efficient Home

If buying or renting a new home, look for one with efficiency and savings in mind.

Seek Out ENERGY STAR Homes

ENERGY STAR certified new homes meet strict efficiency guidelines like proper insulation, sealing, and equipment.

-ENERGY STAR homes average 10-30% more efficiency than standard builds.

Look for the ENERGY STAR label and home energy rating score (HERS index).

Check the Insulation

Inspect the attic, walls, crawl spaces, and basement to ensure proper insulation levels.
Blown in and spray foam insulation outperform old batt insulation.
Ask for a thermal imaging scan to check for leaks and weak insulation.

Review HVAC Equipment

Ensure heating and cooling equipment meets ENERGY STAR standards and is properly sized.
Check the HERS rating on the AC unit’s yellow EnergyGuide label. Higher is better.
Look for a programmable thermostat, high efficiency furnace, and sealed ductwork.

Consider Smart Home Technologies

Opt for a home with solar, smart thermostats, and energy monitoring systems pre-installed.
Make sure all appliances and lighting are ENERGY STAR certified.
Choose smart devices that allow remote control and automation to maximize efficiency.

Shift Usage to Off-Peak Hours

Many electric companies use variable rates based on demand, with higher peak rates.

Understand Your Electric Rates

Check if your electric company uses time-of-use pricing that varies by peak and off-peak times.
Look for higher rates on weekday mornings and evenings when demand spikes as people prepare for work and return home.
Overnight and weekend rates may be lower during periods of reduced demand.

Adjust Your Habits

Set timers on appliances and charging devices to run overnight or on weekends to take advantage of lower rates.
Avoid running major appliances like the clothes dryer and dishwasher during peak evening hours when possible.
Pre-cool your home and use fans in the evening instead of AC to reduce demand spikes.

Consider an EV with Delayed Charging

For electric vehicle owners, charge overnight or early morning to use lower cost off-peak power.
Use delayed or scheduled charging settings to automate charging when rates are lowest.

Reduce Standby Power Usage

Standby power from devices in idle mode accounts for 5-10% of average home electric usage.

Unplug Rarely Used Devices

Unplug appliances like extra fridges and freezers when not needed. Use a power strip to easily disconnect multiple items.
Unplug small electronics like TVs, laptops, and phone chargers when not in use or expected to be unused for long periods.

Use Smart Power Strips

Smart power strips sense when main devices go into standby mode and cut power to other connected devices like game consoles.
Advanced models allow remote shut off and scheduling. This ensures full shut down when not needed.

Check for Energy Saving Modes

Enable eco modes and sleep settings on computers, monitors, printers, gaming consoles, and other electronics when possible.
Ensure TVs and cable/satellite boxes fully power down and don’t stay in idle. Disable quick start modes.

Choose Efficient Electronics

Look for the ENERGY STAR label when buying new TVs, computers, printers, and other electronics.
Check product specs for low standby power ratings, under 1 watt when possible.

Get an Energy Audit

Consider getting a professional energy audit to identify ways to improve your home’s efficiency.

What to Expect

An auditor will do a room by room examination of your home to identify efficiency issues.
They use equipment like blower door tests to check for leaks and thermal imaging to pinpoint insulation gaps.
You’ll get a detailed report with savings recommendations and estimated costs.

Look for Auditors

Search for qualified auditors through the Department of Energy’s Home Energy Score program.
Contact your electric company to see if they offer free or discounted audits. Some do as part of efficiency programs.
Find an auditor certified through the Building Performance Institute (BPI) or Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET).

Act on Recommendations

Prioritize auditor recommendations that offer the best return on investment through energy savings.
Take advantage of any rebates or incentives your utility offers to offset upgrade costs.
Consider doing recommended upgrades in stages over multiple years to spread out costs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lowering Electric Bills

How much can I really save by making my home more efficient?

By taking steps like sealing air leaks, adding insulation, upgrading appliances, and changing energy habits, you can reduce your electric bill by 10-40% per year, with the highest savings coming from major efficiency upgrades.

What is the most cost effective way to lower my electric bill?

The easiest ways to save come from changing habits, like turning off lights, running full loads of laundry and dishes, raising the AC temperature, and lowering the heat. Simple upgrades like LED bulbs and programmable thermostats also save with relatively fast payback.

Should I buy and install products like radiant barriers and outlet insulation gaskets?

You can skip those types of marginal products with limited effectiveness. Focus spending first on air sealing, insulation, thermostats, and major upgrades recommended by an energy audit before considering less impactful gadgets.

How long does it take for efficiency upgrades to pay for themselves?

Simple no-cost habit changes pay off immediately. DIY upgrades like caulking and LED bulbs pay back within 1 year. Major upgrades like new HVAC systems and solar panels can take 3-7 years to recoup costs but then provide ongoing savings.

Are smart thermostats worth the investment?

Smart thermostats that adjust temperatures based on your schedule average savings of about 10% on