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Saving money on your utility bills

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Written by Beth Wade Friday, 09 May 2008

The summer months are typically when Americans use the most energy in their homes, said Terry Hadley, Public Utilities Commission of Texas communications director. The commission recommends the following tips to help customers save on utility costs.

: With the deregulation of electricity prices in Electric Reliability Council of Texas’ servicing area, customers can now shop around for lower cost energy providers. Summer is a key time for consumers to begin shopping for lower energy prices, Hadley said. For more information, visit www.powertochoose.com.
: Check all household appliances to make sure they are running properly. Newer appliances are generally more energy efficient. Hadley recommends that major appliances, such as washers, dryers and dishwashers, only be used when at capacity and used less often. In a dishwasher, most of the energy is used to heat the water. Each time the dishwasher is used, the same amount of water is used, whether there are three plates or a full load.
: When used properly, a ceiling fan can help save on air conditioning costs. Hadley also recommends that air conditioners be operated by a programmable thermostat. When no one is home, the thermostat can be programmed to be off or at a higher temperature to keep from cooling an empty house.
: Check all air filters and replace dirty or clogged filters. Some more expensive filters can last up to six months, but lower cost ones can get dirty more quickly.
: To keep your house cool in the summer and warm in the winter, it is important to check your home’s insulation. For areas of the house that are not insulated properly, there is a simple fix. There are websites and home improvement stores that can help you do it yourself, but sometimes a contractor might be needed.

Caulking around doors and windows can help prevent cool air leaking outside and warm air seeping in.
: On those days when the sun is pounding down and the temperature is rising, it might seem like a good day to throw open the shades and let in the sunshine. However, these conditions can raise the temperature in your house and, in turn, raise the amount of energy needed to keep the air conditioner running. Curtains, blinds and other window treatments are good tools for keeping out the sun and its extra heat.
: Leaving lights on when no one is home is wasted energy. The PUC also recommends installing fluorescent light bulbs. Fluorescent bulbs can be more expensive initially, but will save money in the long run. The price of these bulbs is coming down as their popularity grows, Hadley said.
: Remember to turn the computer and television off if no one is using them. These machines draw a lot of power, and there is no need to leave them on when they are not in use.