5 Common Energy Mistakes to Avoid

Cutting back on energy costs isn’t just about turning the lights off when you leave a room. Many everyday habits that we often overlook can drive up your electricity bill without you realizing it. However, a few simple changes can make a big difference in your home’s energy efficiency and your overall savings. Here are five common energy mistakes to avoid:

1. Using Old Appliances

It’s easy to hold onto old appliances, especially if they still work. But outdated refrigerators, washers, dryers and dishwashers tend to use far more energy than the more modern options. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, especially those with an ENERGY STAR® rating, can significantly reduce your energy consumption. While there is an upfront cost, the long-term savings on your monthly electricity bill make the investment well worth it.

2. Forgetting to Change Your Air Filter

Your HVAC system already works hard to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, but it has to work even harder when the air filter is clogged. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to use more energy to heat and cool your home. Over time, this increases your power bill and causes unnecessary wear and tear on your air conditioning unit. This can also mean more money spent on maintenance, repairs and even replacements. Changing your air filter regularly according to your manufacturer’s guidelines is key for keeping your HVAC system running smoothly, extending its lifespan and reducing your energy costs.

3. Not Using Energy-Efficient Lighting

Although lighting isn’t often the first thing you may think of when figuring out how to decrease your energy bill, the costs of inefficient lighting can add up over time. If you’re still using traditional incandescent lightbulbs, it’s time to make the switch to LED. Not only do LED bulbs use a fraction of the energy, but they also last much longer, making them a smarter choice overall. Letting in natural light during the day can also help you reduce your energy consumption. Consider installing smart home technology with automatic dimmers and sensors to further cut down on energy costs.

4. Ignoring Your Thermostat Settings

Your thermostat plays a huge role in your home’s energy efficiency. The smallest adjustments can make a big difference in terms of your power bill. A good practice is to set your thermostat a few degrees higher in the summer and a few degrees lower in the winter, as this can prevent unnecessary energy use. Using fans and blankets and wearing season-appropriate clothing can help you stay comfortable without overworking your AC. To make things even more convenient, consider using a programmable or smart thermostat, which automatically adjusts its settings based on your schedule and preferences. 

5. Keeping Energy Vampires Plugged in

Many electronic devices continue to draw power even when they’re not in use. These are often referred to as “energy vampires” and include devices like TVs, gaming consoles, computers, chargers and small kitchen appliances. While each device may not use a sizable amount of energy on its own, keeping multiple energy vampires plugged in at all times can secretly increase your bill. Unplug these devices when you’re not using them, or try using smart power strips that automatically cut off energy supply to idle devices. 

Making these small adjustments around your home can go a long way in reducing your energy costs. With prepaid power from Pronto Power, you can track your usage in real time to identify additional opportunities for savings. Give us a call at (844) 621-2852 or contact us online to learn more about how Pronto Power can help you save money on your electricity bill.