Do your energy bills continue to rise, no matter how hard you try to reduce them? Here are four hidden culprits behind your sky high electric bill that could be sneakily driving up the costs.
Despite your best sustainability efforts, do you find yourself wondering why your power consumption remains so high? You’ve turned off the lights, unplugged electronics, and even started hang-drying your laundry, but the cost of your energy bills keeps going up. It’s time to uncover the hidden culprits behind your sky-high energy bills—explore some lesser-known factors that could be wreaking havoc on the environment and your wallet.
The Insidious Phantom Power
You might think that setting your electronics to standby mode saves on energy usage, but beware; they could be guzzling electricity without your knowledge. This sneaky phenomenon, known as phantom power, means your devices can consume a significant amount of energy even when they are seemingly turned off.
To eliminate phantom power, unplug electronics when not in use, use power strips with on/off switches, and invest in energy-efficient appliances with low standby power consumption.
Outdated Light Fixtures
Are your lights constantly flickering or dimming? These are signs you have outdated fixtures that need updating. Old-school fixtures are inefficient and sap electricity like there’s no tomorrow, inflating your bills far more than you might expect.
To modernize your home, upgrade to LED light bulbs, opt for newer, energy-efficient fixtures, and install daylight sensors to reduce the amount of energy used during peak times of day.
Poor Insulation & Drafts
Escaping heat and cold drafts aren’t just annoying and uncomfortable; they’re also a major reason for high energy bills. Poor insulation and drafty windows force your heating and cooling systems to work overtime, causing your bills to skyrocket.
To better insulate your home, seal gaps around windows and doors, add weatherstripping to doors, and properly insulate your attic and walls.
Are You Ready To Lower Your Electric Bills?
Now that you’ve unearthed the hidden culprits behind your sky-high electric bills, it’s time to make some changes. Take down these energy monsters and you’ll be well on your way to creating an eco-friendly, budget-friendly living space.