Let’s talk about everyone’s favorite company….PG&E! Have you noticed an uptick in your energy bill recently? The cost of electricity across the Bay Area went up again, starting January 1st. And, you might be wondering how you can help to bring that bill back down…
Well, we’ve got you! Here are some simple and inexpensive ways to try to save energy, both for your wallet’s sake and the environment!
Your Personal Energy Detective
One of the first steps to saving some hard-earned cash is truly understanding your energy usage. Enter the Emporia Energy Meter. This nifty device tracks your energy consumption second-by-second, pinpointing exactly what’s causing those usage spikes. And the best part? There’s no charge for the tracking. Knowledge is power – and in this case, it could lead to significant savings.
Water Heater Wisdom
Setting your water heater thermostat to 120°F or lower is another smart move. This adjustment reduces the energy required to produce and maintain hot water. PS: Adjusting the temperature is as simple as tweaking a dial on your heater.
Microwave Magic
Reheating leftovers? Opt for a microwave over a standard oven. It’s not just quicker; it uses up to 80% less energy. That’s efficiency at its finest!
Lighting the Way with LEDs
Still using incandescent bulbs? It’s time for a change. Switch to LED bulbs and watch your electricity bill drop. Such a bright idea, right?! 😉
Thermostat Tweaks
Did you know that for each degree you lower your thermostat, you save about 2% on your heating bill? That’s right! For instance, turning it down from 70°F to 65°F could slice around 10% off your bill. If you’re looking for an even more seamless solution, consider investing in a Smart Thermostat like Nest. It automatically manages your usage, ensuring comfort without such a hefty price tag.
Laundry Tips: Cold Wash, Big Savings
Washing your clothes in cold water is not just good for your garments (think less color bleeding and no shrinkage); it’s also incredibly energy-efficient. Plus, cold water washes are just as effective for most laundry loads.
Dishwasher Delays
Use the “DELAY” feature on your dishwasher to run it during off-peak hours, like in the middle of the night. This small adjustment can lead to more savings than you might expect.
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We hope this helps inspire some new ideas to keep those costs down!
