One of the highest bills that individuals will pay every month is the electric bill. But what if there were simple life hacks that could lower these sky-high bills? If you're seeking out ways to keep your electric bill to a minimum and eliminate unnecessary spending, then this article is for you.

 

Solar Panels

Investing in solar panels is the next big step towards a greener earth, but it can also save you quite a bit of money on your electric bill in the long run. Not only that, but solar panels can add up to $15,000 to the value of your home, so you would not be making a mistake in getting them even if you don't plan to live in the same house for 20 years.

It's important that your area gets plenty of sunlight for the solar panels to be a working asset to your home. In sunny California, you shouldn't have a problem with that and can easily get a solar company in Riverside County to get your home set up with clean energy. Trees blocking the sun's rays may pose a problem, so be sure to consider that when considering solar panels.

 

Switch Off

There are many ways you can save on power just by switching things off. When you wash your hands or shower, turn the water off while you're soaping up, and only turn it back on when you're ready to rinse. When you wash the dishes, don't keep the water running if you're not actually using it. When appliances are not in use, unplug them. Energy continues to flow through cords even when you turn them off, so be sure to unplug them as you're turning them off.

 

Utilize the Dishwasher (at the Right Time)

The dishwasher will actually save you more money on your electric bill than handwashing if used appropriately. Only run the dishwasher at night because the rates are usually lower in the evening than in the daytime. Any dishes with a lot of caked-on food or grime should soak in water before being put in the dishwasher. Lower down the temperature of your dishwasher to medium or cold, and this will definitely help you pinch pennies.

 

 

Keep the Dryer Exhaust Clean

The dryer exhaust often gets clogged with lint. Clean the exhaust and it will run more efficiently, and your clothes will dry faster. If you're willing to put in a little extra work, then consider putting up a line in your yard and hang drying your clothes. Doing this even a couple of times a week will surely lower your electric bill, as the dryer is one of the biggest absorbers of energy in a household.

 

Lessen Heat Usage

Limiting the amount of heat you use in your home and with appliances can offset the cost of a power bill. Most water heaters are set on a level that the maximum heat option is too hot for human skin. Turn down the heat on the water tank to save a few bucks every month, and just turn it back up if you ever need scalding hot water.

If you can, don't use hot water every time you use it. Shower at the coldest you can stand it and don't wash your clothes or dishes in hot water. Anytime you can avoid using appliances that produce heat, be mindful of how long and how much you use them.

 

Get a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is an easy way to control your AC and heat usage. The days of accidentally leaving your thermostat on all day while you're out are over, as you can turn off your thermostat from anywhere. Most programmable thermostats will have special features so that you can monitor the usage of heat and air, thus making it easier to set and meet goals for reduction.

 

Dress Accordingly

This might sound like a no-brainer, but dress according to the weather. The air conditioning and heat are one of the biggest contributors to the electric bill, so dressing in a way that makes sense for the weather will help you use it less and save. If it's cold, then bundle up. If it's hot, then wear the bare minimum!

There's not one magical tactic you can use to pay a lower electric bill. It's vital that all the methods are done in tandem for the best possible result. If you're looking to invest in your home and also save money, then get an inspector to evaluate where you might be losing insulation and where a few repairs could save you a lot every month.