If you own a large luxury home, your electricity bills are probably significant. Most people associate owning a large home with big electricity bills so they feel that there is nothing they can do about it except pay the bills and know that this is the cost of living the high life.
But this is not actually the case. In fact, there are lots of things a homeowner can do to lower their electricity bills and these things are effective no matter the size of the home. Best of all, you do not have to give up any of the comforts you currently enjoy to save money.
Here is a list of some important things to do to save big on your electricity bills:
Be Smart about Heating and Cooling
The biggest cost of electricity in a home is heating and cooling it and this means your HVAC system. These powerful units regulate the temperature throughout your home, working to keep you cool in the summers and warm in the winters. You need to make sure that you are doing everything you can to make sure they are working as efficiently as possible. Here are a few ways to make sure that this is the case:
Make sure you have an efficient unit: HVAC advances happen about every 10 to 12 years meaning there is a much more efficient unit introduced over this time period. If your unit is older than 12 years, there is a good chance that it may not be very efficient, which means it is using too much electricity. Additionally, HVAC units becomes less efficient over time. Call a repair man and have him assess and test your unit. Also have him check the ducting and other areas of the HVAC system for leaks. You may find that you can save enough on electricity bills to justify purchasing a new unit.
Make sure all windows and doors are closed when the unit is on: The unit will try and get you to the temperature you have requested and will work as hard as needed to do this. Once the unit has reached the target temp, it still shut down until it is needed again. I there is a door or window open it will never get to the target temp and run continuously, creating large energy bills for you. So first make sure all doors and windows are closed when the unit is operating.
Check for any leaks: Leaks in windows frames and doors can account for more than 15% of the cool or warm air from your HVAC being lost. Meanwhile, you are paying for that lost energy. Check all doors windows and even walks for leaks and if you find any seal them immediately.
Disconnect Unused Appliances
In a large home there might be a dozen or more appliances that are plugged in all the time but not being used regularly. Any appliance that is plugged into a wall socket is using electricity whether it is turned on or not. This includes TVs, microwaves, and any phone chargers. Unplug them and you will save money.
Consider Going Green
Going green means that you set a goal to lower your carbon footprint and even look to make your home carbon neutral. This means that your home does not cause any negative environmental impact. This is quite a big commitment and includes things like: installing solar panels to supply electricity, and heat water, increasing the insulation in the walls and other interiors areas of your home to prevent loss the loss of warm or cool air, and restricting your electricity usage within tight boundaries. It is definitely not for everyone but the payoff in feeling great about your habits and saving money can be fantastic.
These common sense ideas can help you to save money on your electricity bills. Consider trying them and also don’t forget to turn off lights and appliances when you leave a room.