How to lower energy use while you’re working from home
Are you spending more time at home during the day than usual? If you answered “yes,” then you might see an increase on your monthly power bill. Not to worry, here are a few suggestions that may help keep your energy bills lower while you and your family are staying indoors all day.
One: Check peak utility hours
Energy costs can be more expensive during peak use hours. Most utility companies have information about when peak hours of use are, so double check with your utility company and adjust when you do certain things around the house, like laundry or running your dishwasher.
Two: If you have solar panels
If you have solar panels, do things that use larger appliances, like laundry and dishes during the day, because that’s when the sun is at its max, making it more efficient and cost effective for your household.
Three: Let the sun in
Be strategic about letting the sun into your home, especially during seasons like spring. Open your blinds and curtains during daylight hours to add more warmth. The more sun you let in, the more heat you have, too. It also adds more light into your home, so you can switch your lights off.
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Four: Stop overcharging
Most of us prefer to have phones and other devices charged to a full 100% all of the time, but keeping our device batteries fully charged isn’t necessary. Let your battery run low before you recharge. It might be a small amount, but it adds up over time. Also, consider turning off power strips when you’re not using them to power electronics you aren’t using all the time.
Five: Go cold
Guess how much of your washer’s total energy is used to heat up the water? 90%! Unless it’s totally necessary, try using the cold cycle instead. It will help conserve energy and potentially cut down on costs.
Six: Ditch the heat dry on the dishwasher
Are you doing loads and loads more dishes? Well, if the kids are home with you, you probably are. One way to cut back on energy is to turn off your dishwasher’s heat dry option, so it uses less energy.
Stay sane and safe
This is a challenging time for all of us. Hopefully, these tips can help you stay comfortable in your homes, while using your energy responsibly. Stay sane and stay safe.