10 Tips to Reducing your Electricity Bill
Before you even consider investing in solar PV or any renewable energy technology, there are few simple things you can do to reduce your consumption. Here are a few energy saving tips:
- Understand your electricity bill and keep track your consumption. Remember, you can only manage what you measure.
- Replace as many incandescent bulbs as you can afford with compact fluorescent lamps (CFL’s) or LED’s, starting with those lights that are turned on for more than 3-5 hours a night (e.g. kitchen, bedrooms, TV room, outdoor security lights etc.). In addition, for outdoor security lighting, consider fixtures incorporating daylight sensors and motion sensors. In addition to saving energy they last much longer, saving you extra money.
- If you are using a conventional electric storage water heater, you should consider switching to a solar or a tank-less water heater. In Antigua & Barbuda investing in a solar water heater can save you up to $150/month in electricity costs. If you cannot afford the upfront cost of replacing your storage water then , at the very least, you should install a timer and have it set to come on for a limited time (e.g 1 hr) at the times of the day when hot water is more needed (mornings and evenings).
- If you have air-conditioning, control direct sunlight through windows. Installing blinds, screens, awnings or sun control window film can reduce heat gain through glass windows by as much as 30%.
- Again if you have air-conditioning, ensure that filters are changed and cleaned regularly. During peak times, change or clean filters monthly.
- Turn lights electronics and appliances off when they are not in use. Unplug idle adapters and cell phones or use power strips which turn off automatically.
- Large appliances such as refrigerators, washers and dishwashers can significantly affect a home’s overall energy efficiency. Appliances that bear energy efficiency labelling such as ENERGY STAR incorporate advanced technologies that use 10-50 percent less energy than standard models.
- Position your refrigerator away from heat sources such as ovens, dishwashers and direct sunlight from the window.
- Have an energy audit done professionally or do it yourself. That way you know what the "energy hogs" are and what areas to target.
- Consider a solar PV system from OWIA Energy Solutions.
