Cut your electric bill

October 1, 2008 on 7:23 am | In Going Green-Environment-Saving The Planet, How To's and Helpful Tips | No Comments

Originally uploaded by Mike Dykstra

Some power companies use “Smart meters” that charge based on when you’re using the electricity – peak periods cost more, says Phillip F. Schewe, author of The Grid: A Journey Through the Heart of Our Electrified World. Even without the smart meter, avoiding electricity usage during peak times makes sense to reduce blackouts and brownouts.

4 more energy-savings tips:

• Run the dishwasher as you’re going to bed, not at peak times, like 5 PM

• Replace every incandescent light bulb with a compact fluorescent light bulb or CFL. You will save 10% on your power bill.

• Figure out how much electricity your older appliances are drawing (buy a little meter for around $20). For example, a new refrigerator uses one-third of the electricity of an older model of the same size.

• Replace your range drip pans, with Range Kleen Chrome Plated Drip Pans often to keep your range looking and cooking like new. This could mean a savings of up to $50.00 annually and up to $1,000 over 20 years, while giving your range a beautiful new appearance.