From Guest Blogger Brooke Chaplan: Four Ways You Can Efficiently Use Electricity

If you have ever gasped after seeing your electricity bill, you are not alone. Many people receive a high utility bill and are ready to take action to not repeat the experience. Try these four ways to efficiently use electricity and reduce the amount of money that you have to pay to the utility company every month.

Use Energy Star Appliances

Consider making a switch to appliances that have the Energy Star rating from the U.S. Department of Energy. This rating system is used as a measure of efficiency for consumer products. When it comes time to replace your refrigerator, dishwasher, clothes dryer, washing machine, oven or microwave, choose a unit that has this high-efficiency rating. You will save money and lower energy usage.

Install Electrical Transfer Switches

An electrical transfer switch connected to your home’s circuit breaker allows you to change between sources of energy. If you have a solar panel array and are collecting extra power and want to sell it to the utility company, the electrical transfer switch, like those available from Enercon Engineering Inc., allow your system to load energy instead of using it. On days when you need the utility company’s power, a flip of the switch makes it possible.

Try Slow Cookers Instead of the Oven

On hot days, the oven will heat up your entire house. When you want to have a hot meal, try another appliance. A slow cooker is an efficient user of electricity. Many modern units come with timers. Instant pots are another option. They combine the features of a pressure cooker with a slow cooker and have a variety of inserts for cooking different food.

Make a Change in Your Lighting System

Incandescent bulbs are cheap and familiar, but they are not efficient users of electricity. They convert most of their energy into heat instead of light. To optimally light your home, turn to LED light bulbs. These bulbs last for up to ten years with typical use. They consume a fraction of the electricity and come in a range of shapes and shades. LED light bulbs can also be used outdoors.

Each of these tips allows you to continue enjoying all of the comforts of home but at a lower price. As each appliance or light bulb needs to be replaced, choose a more efficient product for its replacement. Making small changes in your routines and considering alternative options that are more efficient will all help you with lowering electricity use and being efficient.