By making some small changes in the way you use electricity you can reduce your monthly electrical bill. You will find some ideas below. While these are not the only things you can do, they can provide a good beginning...
Heating and Cooling
Replace the air filters on your central heating system regularly.
Limit the thermostat control setting for the furnace in the heating season to a maximum of 65° F.
Limit the thermostat control setting for the air conditioner in the cooling season to a minimum of 78° F.
Consider installation of programmable thermostat to maximize building “setback” savings.
Consider installing ceiling fans.
Adding reflective film or sun screens to glass areas can result in energy savings when installed on east, south and west exposures.
Planting trees and shrubs to provide shade while not obstructing natural ventilation can result in energy savings.
Insulate ductwork and/or piping.
Close the window shades to keep the afternoon sun's heat out.
Building an “Envelope”
Insulate attic, outside walls, floors over crawl space, etc.
Add insulation to attic access panels or pull down stairs.
Install insulation in gaps around pipes, ducts, fans or other items which enter the attic or exit the house from a conditioned space.
Install 1 square foot of attic ventilation per 300 square feet of attic space.
Use outlet and switchplate gaskets to reduce air infiltration.
Caulk, seal and weather strip around windows/doors.
Water Heating
Set water heater thermostats to 115-120° F (140° F if dishwasher not equipped with temperature booster is used).
Replace showerheads and faucets with type limiting flow to 2.5 gallons per minute.
Reduce use of heater water for clothes washing.
Turn off electric water heater at breaker or set back gas water heater to “pilot,” “vacation,” or lowest heat setting when your home is vacant for 2 days or more.
Replace washers (“0-rings” in washerless faucets) where leaking.
Install insulating wrap for water heater.
Insulate hot water pipes.
Try using cool water and cool water detergents in your washing machine.
Set your dishwasher to "air-dry"
Refrigerators and Freezers
Clean refrigerator and freezer coils at least biannually.
Check the gasket around your refrigerator door. Close the door on a piece of paper. If the paper slides out easily, adjust or replace the gasket.
Use the “power-saver” switch if your refrigerator has one. This turns off little heaters designed to prevent condensation in extremely humid climates.
Eliminate use of underutilized second refrigerator/ freezer and consolidate storage into primary appliance.
Keep your refrigerator and freezer at the right temperature. The refrigerator should be between 38° F and 42° F and the freezer between 0° F and 5° F.
Be an "Energy Wise" appliance buyer.
Defrost non-frost-free refrigerators when necessary.
Lighting
Use compact flourescent lights and lighting controls where appropriate.
