LifeHacks: Simple Ways to Lower Your Energy Bill
Saving energy doesn’t have to be complicated—or expensive. With a few smart changes, you can reduce your energy usage, lower your bills, and make your home more efficient.
1. Cut Phantom Power
Many electronics and appliances draw electricity even when turned off, known as phantom power. Look for devices with standby lights or clocks—they’re constantly using energy.
Easy fix:
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Plug electronics into a power strip.
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Turn off the strip when devices aren’t in use.
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This completely cuts power and can save hundreds of dollars per year.
2. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Lighting
Replacing old incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent (CFL) or LED bulbs can drastically reduce electricity use—up to 80% per bulb!
Tip:
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Dispose of CFLs properly, as they contain small amounts of mercury. Many local recycling centers accept them for free. Contact Recycleabulb.com for advice!
3. Smart Heating and Cooling Habits
Central HVAC systems are convenient but can waste energy if used for every room all the time.
Ways to save:
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Use space heaters in occupied rooms instead of heating the entire home at night.
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Set your thermostat on a timer to reduce heating or cooling when rooms aren’t in use.
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Make sure bedrooms have adequate blankets or bedding to stay comfortable while the HVAC system is off.
4. Seal and Insulate Your Home
A surprisingly large amount of energy is lost through air leaks and poor insulation. Properly sealing windows, doors, and ductwork can drastically improve efficiency.
Pro tips:
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Check for drafts near windows and doors and seal with weatherstripping.
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Insulate attics, basements, and crawlspaces to keep warm or cool air from escaping.
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Have ducts inspected for leaks and cracks—fixing them improves airflow and reduces energy costs.
5. Maintain Your HVAC System
An efficiently running HVAC system uses less energy and lasts longer.
Maintenance tips:
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Replace filters every 1–3 months depending on usage.
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Schedule annual tune-ups with a licensed HVAC technician to check for issues before they escalate.
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Clean vents and registers regularly to improve airflow and reduce strain on your system.
6. Invest in Smart Thermostats and Home Automation
Modern thermostats allow you to optimize your heating and cooling schedules automatically.
Benefits:
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Adjust temperature remotely from your smartphone.
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Set schedules based on occupancy or seasons.
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Receive alerts if your HVAC system is underperforming, helping you address issues before energy bills spike.
7. Track Your Energy Usage
Knowledge is power. Many homes have energy monitors or smart meters that track electricity use by appliance.
Why it helps:
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Identify which devices or systems are consuming the most energy.
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Make informed choices about upgrades or changes in habits.
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See savings immediately after implementing energy-saving tips.
Seek Professional Advice
Even small adjustments can add up, but a professional can help you identify hidden energy wasters in your home. Sears Heating & Cooling in Columbus, Ohio, can evaluate your systems, provide energy-saving tips, and help you make upgrades that improve comfort and efficiency.
Call us today to learn how to lower your energy bills while keeping your home comfortable all year long!
