5 Easy Ways to Reduce Your Energy Consumption

It’s fair to say that the average consumer struggles with ways to keep energy bills under control. Some consumers gravitate towards purchasing energy efficient appliances, which, over the years, will provide substantial reductions in energy use, but the majority of people today seek to find simpler and less costly ways to effectively reduce their household’s energy consumption. Pronto Power, an Austin electric company, recommends the following five easy ways to begin your effective reduction of energy consumption: 

Keep your air filters clean. 

Cooling and heat sources work much harder than necessary when the filter is clogged with debris. If your household includes pets, the addition of pet dander and hair builds up quickly in air filters and immediately impacts how efficiently the system works. Change your filter every 3–4 weeks for maximum air flow efficiency.

Beware the vampire drain. 

Replace old power strips with advanced power strips. You’ve probably heard the term “phantom energy use” or “vampire drain,” in reference to the power leak that results from devices left plugged into a power strip even when they are in the off or standby position. Advanced or smart power strips and plugs can be programmed to turn off appliances and devices at scheduled times and/or during down periods. Utilizing this simple device can result in savings of up to $100 annually.

Get a smart home hub. 

Through these devices you are able to structure a schedule for devices and appliances such as smart lights, smart thermostats, smart water heaters, and other devices that you use regularly that are available in smart models. Selecting the percentage of lighting used by your enabled lamps, placing your thermostat and water heater on a set schedule can reduce your energy footprint and save you money in the long run.  They are easy to set up and you can pick and choose what devices to add to the hub.

Be smart in your kitchen. 

How you use your kitchen appliances impacts your daily energy consumption. When reheating items opt for the toaster oven or microwave instead of the big oven. Cooking for 1 or 2 instead, do the same. Learn how long it takes to preheat your oven, and time it so it coincides with when you actually need to put something in to cook. If you have a convection feature, use that as often as you can. Convection cooking can save 20% or more in energy consumption as it cooks faster and distributes heat more efficiently.

Resist the temptation. 

That pile of laundry may be annoying, but run appliances only when you have enough for a full load. Whether it’s the washer, dryer, or the dishwasher, using these machines when you have full loads will conserve energy usage and save water. Another tip is to wash your clothes in cold water as often as possible which results in further energy reduction.

Take the time to study your daily average usage and study them often. Making simple changes to your routine and employing the devices made to help conserve energy will result in lower energy consumption and lower energy bills. With Pronto Power, you can track your daily energy usage and only pay for what you use. Call us today at 1-844-621-2852 or contact us online to get started.