Q: My utility bills are simply too high. Do you have any suggestions?
A: According to the U. S. Energy Information Administration, the average person spends 44% of his or her annual energy bill on heating and cooling, 25% on appliances, 14% on hot water, 10% on refrigeration and 7% on lighting.
Ovens, dishwashers and clothes dryers make your air conditioner work harder. If you are not in the house during the day, adjust your thermostat to allow higher daytime temperatures. According to the Energy Star program, that may cut your electric bill by up to $20 a month. Another suggestion is to replace an older refrigerator with a more energy-efficient one. To learn how much energy your refrigerator is using, go to www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fuseaction=refrig.calculator.
Watch for computers, DVD and DVR players, microwave ovens, video games, cell phone chargers and other appliances and devices that have transformers or a "standby" mode. The Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory reports that 5–10% of your electricity may be wasted this way. Connect these appliances to power strips and turn them off. Don't charge your cell phones, electric shavers or other chargeable devices longer than necessary.
Save money by getting out of the house to catch a breeze while picnicking under a tree at your local park. Hang out at the air-conditioned ice cream parlor. Lower your bills while you enjoy your days.
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