Best Ways to Reduce Energy Bills
Cut Your Utility Costs with Simple Everyday Changes That Save Energy and Stretch Your Budget
You might be surprised to know that the average American family spends around $206 each month on electricity and gas. That’s a lot of money going to electricity and gas, but the good news is there are plenty of ways to cut that bill down. WorkMoney is here to help with easy tips that can make a real difference, like turning off lights when you’re not using them or upgrading to Energy Star-rated appliances that use less power. So, let's break down the best ways to keep your home cozy and lower your bills, year-round.
Stock up Your Freezer and Fridge
Ever noticed your fridge and freezer huffing and puffing when they're nearly empty? That's because they have to work extra hard to keep those few items cold, using up more energy and bumping up your bills.
But when you keep them well-stocked, your groceries help hold the cold, kind of like a bunch of ice cubes. This makes it easier and more efficient for your fridge or freezer to stay at the right temperature, saving you energy (and money) in the long run.
So go ahead, fill up that freezer—it’s a smart move for your food and your wallet!
Say Yes to Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are a game-changer—they keep you cool in the summer and circulate warm air in the winter. That means you can adjust your thermostat a few degrees and still feel comfy, which helps cut down on your energy bills.
Just remember: fans cool people, not rooms. So when you leave the room, flip the switch to save even more.
Thinking about getting one? Look for an Energy Star-rated ceiling fan—they’re designed to use less energy while keeping your home feeling just right.
Ditch the Dryer
Your clothes dryer is one of the biggest energy guzzlers at home, costing around 34 cents per load. That adds up to about $98 a year!
Want to save? Air-dry your clothes instead. You don’t need a fancy setup—a shower rod or a few plastic hangers work just fine.
WorkMoney Tip: Air-drying is gentler on your clothes, so they’ll last longer without all the wear and tear from the dryer. Less energy, lower bills, and longer-lasting clothes? That’s a win-win-win.
Stop Standby Power
Even when your devices are "off," many still use energy in standby mode—and over time, that sneaky power drain can add up on your energy bill.
To fight back, unplug gadgets when you’re not using them, or plug them into a power strip and flip it off with one switch. Want an even easier fix? Try a smart power strip that you can control right from your phone.
It’s a simple move that can save you money without much effort!
Bring in Dimmer Switches and Turn off the Lights
Want a super-easy way to cut your energy bill? Start with your lights.
Dimmer switches let you adjust brightness, so you're using only the light you need—less wattage means less energy. Pair them with LED bulbs, and you're winning big. LED lights use way less energy than old-school bulbs and can save you around $225 a year on your energy bill!
And don’t forget the classic tip: turn off the lights when you leave a room. If you tend to forget, motion sensors can do it for you—automatically turning off lights when no one’s around. Easy savings, no stress.
Upgrade Your Appliances
Did you know about 9% of your energy bill goes to running your appliances? If yours are more than 15 years old, it might be time for an upgrade. Swapping your old models with new ones can help shave off a nice chunk from that percentage.
The biggest energy users? Your washer, dryer, and fridge. Consider replacing these first to make a big impact. Choose Energy Star appliances, it could save you roughly $450 on energy costs each year. Over time, this can help offset the cost of the appliances, and you’ll have newer, more efficient tools to make your daily life easier.
Be Smart with Your Thermostat
One of the easiest ways to save on energy? Let your thermostat do the work!
By programming your thermostat to match your daily routine, you can lower your heating and cooling costs by 10% a year. A comfy 68°F usually does the trick during the winter. Heading out or going to bed? Dial it down to 60-65°F to save energy while staying comfortable.
Smart thermostats make this even easier- set and forget it, while your energy bill gets a little lighter each month.
WorkMoney Tip: The LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) helps with energy costs for qualified households. You can apply through your state agency or visit Benefits.gov.
Stretch Your Dollars with WorkMoney
At WorkMoney, we're all about showing you how tiny changes can lead to big savings. Join today for more tips on how you can spend less on your home's energy bills and free up some cash for the things that matter.
