[:en]It’s February and winter is still in full swing. There’s lots of ways to stay warm but before you crank up the thermostat it’s important to remember that as you turn up the heat, your electric bill will also increase. No one likes the stress of higher bills so we’ve put together 3 simple ways to save energy this winter without sacrificing your warmth.
1. Control And Stop “Leaky” Electronic Devices
Most people have no idea how much energy their electronic devices use. But did you know that even when you’re not using your electronics they are slowing using up energy? That’s right, your television, computer, coffee maker and more are all quietly sucking your energy even when they’re not in use. In fact, the EPA estimates that globally these gadgets use more than 100 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity nationwide each year. This constitutes about ten billion dollars of energy.
Fortunately, there’s several ways to stop this energy leakage. The most basic way to tackle this issue is to simply unplug these devices when you are not using them. But nobody wants to be constantly plugging and unplugging all of your electronics. An easy and efficient way is to install a light control switch. These little devices plug right into your regular outlet and then serve as a sort of adapter for any electronic you plug into it. You can combine these switches with your home automation system and create timers when everything shuts off (like when you’re going to bed). You could even plug in your coffee maker and schedule it using your Fluent app to turn on every morning. these devices.
Computers have functions such as Sleep Mode and Hibernate Mode which will save almost as much energy as unplugging it.
Electricity usage monitors are available for purchase that will help identify which appliances and electronics are utilizing the most energy.
2. Limit Energy Use During Prime Hours
Another unique way of cutting your energy usage and saving money is to shift when you use your electronic devices. For example, you can try to do your laundry, use your oven or to run your heater at times of the day which are more cost-effective since energy companies tend to assess different costs at different times of the day. Generally, the cost of using devices during the peak hours of the day can be between thirty to sixty percent higher! These hours typically are between 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. By contrast, weekends and holidays are usually considered “off-peak”. However, since all companies define “peak times” differently, you should ask your power company what is best.
3. Use Energy-Friendly Gadgets
One of the most effective ways to save energy is to use energy-saving devices in your home or business. At Fluent, we offer a wide variety of products specifically designed to help you monitor and control your energy usage. One of the best ways to start saving energy with your smart home equipment is by setting up schedules for your smart thermostat. Make sure the heat can be turned down when you leave the house. You can also use the Fluent app to remotely control your thermostat and even your lights!
We hope that these suggestions will prove helpful in controlling your energy costs during the winter and throughout the year.[:]
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