How to Reduce Your Energy Bill in New York

While the cost of living in New York is increasing, there are still things that you can do in order to save money on your electric bill. All you have to do is make a few adjustments in your lifestyle.

Wash Your Clothes in Cold Water

Ninety percent of the energy that your washing machine uses goes towards heating the water. Therefore, you can cut down on your energy use significantly by washing your clothes in cold water. Contrary to popular belief, you can still get your clothes clean by washing them in cold water.

Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature

Most water heaters are automatically set to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. However, you do not need to have the temperature set that high. If you reduce the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, then you can save over $50 per year. You will also reduce your chances of scalding.

Change or Clean Your Filter

Changing the air filter is a task that only takes a few minutes. However, it is something that many people today neglect. If you do not change your air filter, then the efficiency of your HVAC will decrease. This will cause your electric bill to increase.

Your HVAC will also break down if you do not change the air filter. In most cases, air filters need to be changed at least once a month. However, you should check the manufacturer recommendations.

If you do not want to change your air filter every month, then you can purchase a reusable one. You can simply clean a reusable filter and put it back in your air conditioner.

Load Your Dishwasher Properly

There are several ways that you can use your dishwasher properly. You should pre-wash your dishes before you put them in the dishwasher. The placement of your dishes can also affect how much energy your dishwasher uses. You will need to put utensils at the bottom of the dishwasher. The sharp end of the utensils should face upwards. The plates should also be placed in the center of the dishwasher.

The cups and bowls should be placed at the top of the dishwasher. Thin plastics and Tupperware should also be placed at the top. Additionally, you will need to invest in a good dish-washing detergent.

Upgrade Your Appliances

Replacing your appliances can be quite expensive. However, it can help you save a lot of money in the long run. Not only will it help you save money on your electric bill, but you may also be eligible for government rebates and tax credits. When you are looking for new appliances, you will need to check to make sure that they are Energy Star-certified. Keep in mind that many Energy Star appliances cost about as much as conventional products.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is one of the most worthwhile investments that you can make if you are trying to save money on your energy bill. Your programmable thermostat will automatically adjust the temperature of your home based on the settings that you have made. You can have the programmable thermostat set to where the temperature is automatically higher or lower during the times when you are not at home or sleeping.

Compare ESCO Rates

Since you live in New York, you can take advantage of energy deregulation and compare ESCO rates for electricity and gas. Switching your supplier and locking into a fixed-rate contract instead of an unpredictable variable rate by your local utility, like Con Edison, can save on your energy bill.

Seal Leaks

Air leaks can lead to higher electricity bill. Your door frames, windows and basements are some of the areas that are most likely to have air leaks. You can use caulk to seal the cracks in these areas. Caulk can be purchased at just about any hardware store.