How do I reduce my energy bill in U.S.?
Lower your energy bill with smart tips! Discover the best ways to save on electricity and heating costs with energy-efficient upgrades, rebates, and simple household changes.
Reducing your energy bill in the U.S. requires a combination of smart habits, energy-efficient upgrades, and available rebates or incentives. Below is a detailed guide to help you save money on electricity and heating costs.
1. Adjust Your Thermostat for Maximum Savings
Set the thermostat to energy-efficient temperatures:- Winter: Keep it at 68°F (20°C) while awake and lower when sleeping.
- Summer: Set it to 78°F (26°C) when home and higher when away.
Use a programmable or smart thermostat:- A Nest, Ecobee, or Honeywell Smart Thermostat can automatically adjust temperatures to save up to 10%-20% on heating and cooling costs.
- Some utility companies offer rebates for installing one.
Use ceiling fans instead of AC when possible:- Fans use 90% less electricity than air conditioning.
- In summer, set fans to rotate counterclockwise to push cool air down.
- In winter, set them to rotate clockwise at low speed to distribute warm air.
Use natural heating & cooling:- In winter, open curtains during the day for sunlight and close them at night to trap heat.
- In summer, close blinds or shades to block heat from the sun.
2. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances & Lighting
Switch to LED bulbs – They use 75% less energy and last 25x longer than incandescent bulbs. Buy ENERGY STAR®-certified appliances:- Refrigerators, dishwashers, washers, and dryers can reduce energy use by 30%-50%.
- Some states offer rebates for purchasing ENERGY STAR® products (Find rebates here).
Use smart power strips – Many electronics still draw power when turned off. A smart strip automatically shuts off idle devices, reducing phantom energy drain. Unplug chargers & electronics – Phone chargers, laptops, and TVs consume power even when not in use.3. Reduce Heating & Cooling Costs
Seal air leaks around windows and doors:- Use weatherstripping or caulk to prevent drafts.
- Install door sweeps on exterior doors to stop heat loss.
Use heavy curtains or blackout shades:- In winter, they help trap heat.
- In summer, they block out heat from the sun, reducing AC costs.
Insulate your home properly:- Attic and wall insulation can save up to 15% on heating and cooling bills.
- Many states offer insulation rebates through local energy programs.
Maintain your HVAC system:- Change air filters every 1-3 months for better efficiency.
- Schedule yearly HVAC maintenance to keep it running efficiently.
Use space heaters wisely:- Only heat rooms you are using instead of the whole house.
- Always choose energy-efficient models with automatic shut-off.
4. Optimize Water & Electricity Usage
Lower your water heater temperature to 120°F (49°C) – Saves up to 10% on water heating costs. Use cold water for laundry – Heating water accounts for 90% of the energy used in a washing machine. Run full loads of laundry & dishes:- A full dishwasher load uses less water than handwashing.
- Wash clothes in larger loads to maximize efficiency.
Install water-saving showerheads & faucets:- Low-flow showerheads can reduce water heating costs by 30%.
- Some utility companies offer free or discounted water-saving fixtures.
Turn off lights & appliances when not in use.- Use motion sensor lights or smart bulbs that turn off automatically.
5. Leverage Renewable Energy & Utility Rebates
Consider solar panels:- Federal and state solar tax credits can reduce installation costs.
- Some states allow you to sell excess energy back to the grid (net metering).
- Check available incentives at DSIREUSA.org.
Look for energy rebates & incentives:- Many utility companies offer discounts on smart thermostats, insulation, and LED bulbs.
- Find rebates at EnergyStar.gov.
Sign up for time-of-use (TOU) plans:- Some electricity providers charge less during off-peak hours (late night/early morning).
- Running appliances at cheaper hours saves money.
Join a community solar program:- If installing solar panels isn’t an option, some states allow you to subscribe to a shared solar farm to receive credit on your bill.
6. Track & Reduce Energy Usage
Use a smart meter to monitor usage:- Many utility companies offer free energy tracking apps.
- Identify energy-draining devices and adjust habits accordingly.
Compare energy providers (if available in your state):- Some states allow you to switch to a lower-cost electricity provider.
- Compare providers at Energy.gov.
Consider an energy audit:- Many utility companies offer free or low-cost home energy audits.
- A professional can identify hidden energy leaks and suggest upgrades.
7. Bonus Tips for Renters
If you rent and can’t make major changes, you can still save money by:
✔ Using draft stoppers under doors.
✔ Asking your landlord about upgrading insulation or appliances.
✔ Using plug-in space heaters or fans strategically instead of central heating.
✔ Installing stick-on window insulation film during winter to reduce heat loss.