It’s a reality of modern living that you get utility bills every month, but how often do they make you cringe? Millions of Americans let money float out the window each month by not thinking outside the box. However, by using a few hacks, you can significantly reduce the utility bill of your Plano, Texas, home. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Use the Thermostat Wisely
During the summer, air conditioning comprises a significant portion of your total energy bill. To combat the sizable cost, try setting the thermostat up to 76 degrees instead of the commonly used 72-degree mark. Eventually, you’ll become used to the slightly higher temperature of the home; if you’re having trouble adjusting, use more ceiling and floor fans. At 76 degrees, you stand to save between 6 percent and 18 percent per month.
Run Appliances at Night
Most homeowners are unaware that utility companies charge more money per kilowatt-hour during peak hours. Rates tend to fall towards the late evening and early morning. As a result, you stand to save quite a bit of money by running your washer, dryer, and dishwasher at night. A bonus is that everything’s clean when you get up in the morning.
Roof With Light Colors
If you’ve taken a science class at some point in your life, you know that darker colors absorb more light, and thus, soak up more heat. Most homes tend to use black shingles for roofing and end up drawing in more heat, which causes your air conditioner to work harder. You don’t have to pull the shingles off your home and switch them to lighter colors, but if you’re planning on redoing your roof, consider light-colored or even white shingles.
While these are a few ways you may not have thought of to lower your bills, savings starts with making a concerted effort to cut your energy usage. Once you’ve made the commitment, you can start to save. If you need additional help, give Bill Joplin’s Heating & Air Conditioning a call at 888-414-4655. Our team can assist you with any questions you may have and give you advice on how to save even more.
