Energy efficiency is essential when looking to save money on your electricity bills. Solar energy is a great place to start, but there are other little changes you can make in addition to going solar in Arizona.
Most people immediately jump to their AC as the culprit for rising electricity bills. While, this may play a part, you should not have to suffer hot days out of fear of turning on the AC. There are other adjustments you can make, which will allow you to use the AC and not worry quite as much about the bill at the end of the month.
It may seem simple at first glance, but so many often overlook their lighting and how they use it around the home. Getting florescent or Energy Star lighting can make all the difference. These use far less energy than that of incandescent bulbs, which consume almost six times as much and last anywhere from six to fifteen times less in duration.
Turning the lights off behind you is another straightforward piece of advice that many also often forget. You could also get a motion sensor. These will automatically shut off the light if they don't sense motion for a set amount of time.
People often don't realize they are wasting energy and that is why many use the help of an expert to help them understand where it's all going. You can have a professional come into your home and audit your electricity consumption. This should then allow you to properly define where it is that you're losing money and what you can do to fix the problem. The most common solutions are: energy efficient lighting, more insulation, variable speed pool pumps (if you have a pool of course), energy star appliances, and getting rid of that second fridge in the garage.
Everyday items such as your refrigerator and dryer are potential vacuums for electricity. Trading out your old refrigerator, TV, washer/dryer for Energy Star appliances can make a huge difference in your electricity bill.
The thermostat is also an essential component to consider. Ensuring it's programmable can easily assist you when looking to create a more organized heating and cooling system. If possible, keep the areas of the house not being used at more neutral settings. For example, if you tend to stay downstairs all day, keep the upstairs set at 78 in summer instead of 72. This will help you to stay comfortable without cooling the entire house and wasting electricity.
These are just some of the ways you can get started with saving energy for both you and your home. Once you have sufficiently prepared yourself, you should then be ready to make the most of your solar panels. With an energy-efficient home you will have the foundations set for a more successfully run solar system. Get solar for your home in Arizona today!
