With a temperate climate year around it is no surprise that many people choose to call Florida home. Unfortunately, living in such a warm climate also means having an electric bill that can be in the hundreds of dollars each month. The good news is there are steps homeowners can take to save on their electric bill.
1. Seal leaks around windows and doors with caulk and/or weatherstripping; this also includes the area around wood trim. By doing this, warm air stays outside and cooled air stays inside.
2. Replace old light fixtures with Energy Star products; this can be performed by a licensed electrician in Miami.
3. Choose energy-efficient appliances, especially if they were built before 2001. Not only will you save money on your electric bill each month, you may also qualify for a tax credit.
4. When doing laundry, wash and dry several loads at once. This way, the dryer doesn’t completely cool down and takes less time to heat up for the next load. Also make sure to clean out the lint trap after each use.
5. Consider replacing an older TV with an Energy Star certified model as they are 20-30 percent more efficient.
6. Don’t let the sun overheat your home. Use light colored shades, blinds and drapes to let light in but keep heat out.
7. Install ceiling fans in most rooms. They only use as much electricity as a standard light fixture however the breeze generated by the fan can make you feel several degrees cooler. This means the thermostat can be set a few degrees higher, resulting in a savings of up to 2-3%. Make sure existing ceiling fans are switched to turn counterclockwise.
8. Running an inefficient AC system is expensive. Make sure air filters are changed at least once a month to keep the unit running at peak performance.
9. Unplug battery chargers when not in use. Many chargers draw power continuously, even when nothing is being charged.
10. Ask your utility company if they have a “smart” metering program. A “smart” meter tracks the amount of electricity used; this data is then used to make sure the power grid doesn’t become overloaded. If the grid reaches near blackout levels the meter can shut off major appliances in the home for short periods of time. Not all utility companies offer this but it is becoming increasingly popular.
These are just a few of the options available to help lower your monthly electric bill. Consider scheduling an appointment with a Miami electrician who can offer more advice on ways to save.