2950 E Hanna Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46227
info@jeffersonelectricllc.com
8:00am to 5:00pm, Monday - Friday
Electric bills are an unavoidable expense for most households. With the constant increase in electricity rates and our increasing reliance on electrical appliances, it’s no surprise that many people are looking for ways to reduce their electric bill. Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to decrease your energy usage and lower your monthly electric bill. Together we’ll explore some energy-saving tips specifically for residents of Indianapolis, IN who are served by Jefferson Electric.
Before we dive in, it’s important to first understand how your electric bill is calculated. Your electric bill is made up of two main components: the fixed charge and the variable charge. The fixed charge is a set amount that you pay every month for basic service and maintenance costs. The variable charge is based on your energy usage and is calculated by multiplying the number of kilowatt hours (kWh) you use by the current rate per kWh.
One of the most effective ways to reduce your electric bill is to replace old, energy-guzzling appliances with newer, more energy-efficient models. Looking for appliances with the Energy Star label, which indicates that the appliance meets strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a great place to start. For example, replacing an old refrigerator with an Energy Star certified model could save you up to $100 a year on your electric bill!
Many of us keep our electronics plugged in even when we’re not using them. However, this standby power usage can account for up to 10% of your electric bill. Getting in the habit of unplugging chargers, TVs, gaming consoles, and other electronics when they’re not in use is a simple way to reduce your energy usage.
Heating and cooling accounts for almost half of an average household’s electric bill. To reduce this cost, make sure your home is properly insulated and seal any air leaks. You can also lower your thermostat by a few degrees in the winter and raise it in the summer to save on heating and cooling costs.
LED light bulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer. By replacing your old light bulbs with LED ones, you can significantly decrease your energy usage and save money on your electric bill with the added bonus of having to change them out less frequently.
You may have the option to sign up for time-of-use rates with your utility company. This option means that you’ll pay a lower rate for electricity during off-peak hours (usually at night and on weekends) and a higher rate during peak hours (usually during the day on weekdays). By shifting your energy usage to off-peak hours, you can save money on your electric bill. Be sure to check with your local electric utility company to learn more about their time-of-use rates.
Heating water accounts for a large portion of your washing machine’s energy consumption. By switching to cold water, you can significantly reduce the amount of energy used for laundry. Most modern detergents are designed to be effective in cold water, so this simple switch won’t compromise the cleanliness of your clothes, but you will notice the money you save on your energy bill.
Consider investing in renewable energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines. Not only will this help reduce your electric bill, but it also promotes the use of clean energy and reduces your carbon footprint.
It’s always a good idea to conduct an energy audit of your home to identify areas where you can improve energy efficiency. Jefferson Electric offers free energy audits for its customers, which can help pinpoint any inefficiencies in your home and offer solutions to reduce your energy usage including electrical upgrade and solar energy solutions.
By following these energy-saving tips, you can further reduce your electric bill and save money without sacrificing comfort or convenience. If you have any questions about your electric bill or want more personalized energy-saving advice, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at Jefferson Electric. Together, we can work towards creating a more sustainable and cost-effective energy future for Indianapolis residents!
