Random Energy Saving Hacks For A Lower Electric Bill (18 items)

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  (#16) Seal Window Leaks

  Even if all of your equipment is running smoothly and you've figured out how to get the most out of your energy expenditure, your drafty windows could still be slowly draining your wallet.

  Needless to say, preventing that air from leaking out through your windows can make a big difference. In fact, sealing those leaks can save you anywhere from 10-20% on your bill.
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  (#5) Place The Outside Air Conditioner In The Shade

  Make sure your outdoor AC is shaded - preferably by the house. What you don't want to do, however, is build a cover over the unit. That can restrict airflow and prevent hot air from being able to fully discharge from the system, thus causing the system to believe it's hotter outside than it actually is.
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  (#8) Don’t Shut Doors

  You'd think that closing the door to an unused room would help cut heating and cooling costs, but it actually does the opposite. Closed doors block airflow. The trapped air finds a way to escape the house any way it can.

  That lost air is replaced, often drawing in 300-900% more air, significantly increasing utility bills.
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  (#4) Unplug Electronics That Aren't Being Used

  According to the US Department of Energy, American households spend an average of about $1,900 a year on energy costs. And contrary to assumption, the energy is not just the result of all those appliances - the TV, the laptop, the coffee machine - you keep running.

  If you want to save money, turning them off won't do the trick - you've gotta unplug them altogether. Plugged-in electronics keep zapping energy even when they're switched off. Anywhere from 5-10% of residential electricity is used by devices that are always plugged in.
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  (#15) Change The AC Filter

  AC filters get dirty pretty quickly - possibly within 30-90 days - and thus require pretty regular maintenance. Leaving them unattended for too long can cause problems down the line - not just energy inefficiency but possibly even a fire.
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  (#17) Ventilate Your Attic Property

  If you have an attic, make sure it's ventilated properly. Not enough ventilation can be bad enough - moisture issues during the winter, inefficiency during the summer - but over-ventilation can be even worse, with too many openings making your attic susceptible to the effects of harsh natural events like hurricanes, rainstorms, or wildfires. Consult a professional to determine how much ventilation is necessary for your house.

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