Can anyone remember when a monthly utility bill rate has gone down? Electric bills, especially in the Miami area, seem to grow month after month. With more focus on renewable energy, electricity rates will only grow until these renewables are mastered and proper infrastructure is built. In the meantime, do what you can to avoid overpaying for your electric bill. Below are four ways to do just that.
1. Miami, as we all know, has an abundance of awesome weather. They don’t call Florida the ‘Sunshine State’ for nothing. With that said, be sure to utilize sunlight during the day and keep lights off. It sounds silly, this suggestion seems somewhat intuitive. If your home does not have a lot of windows, consider installing skylights to give windowless rooms more light. Not a fan of skylights? You may be surprised as they have come along way since the old, leaky “roof-windows” they once were. Today, skylights come in all shapes and sizes and can provide lighting while helping you save on energy.
2. Speaking of light, be sure to purchase or install light timers, dimmers, and sensors in order to keep from wasting energy on empty rooms. Most of us can remember our parent’s frustration as they went room to room turning off lights. By installing these components you will never have to worry about wasting energy in such a way again.
3. Most of us in the Miami area have some type of air conditioning installed in our homes. Though most of us do not set our thermostats at 60 degrees, you may be surprised a lot of people still do. Perhaps one of the easiest ways to cut back a little on our energy costs is by setting the thermostat just a few degrees warmer.
4. Ensure you doors and windows are properly sealed. Weather stripping has a tendency of wearing down over time. Be sure to replace these weather strips to keep all of that ‘bought-air’ inside your home where it belongs. If the weather stripping does not need to be replaced, give it a good cleaning with soap and water. Also, and if you do not have one already, consider installing a door sweep on the bottom of your door. Not only will it help keep creepy-crawlies out, it will also help keep air in.
If you have further questions about cutting down on your energy costs, be sure to consult a Miami area electrician to provide tips and suggestions. Hiring a knowledgeable electrician can pay for itself in a few short months of saving on your energy bill.