How to save on electricity this summer

Hot summer in the United States entails an increase in payments for electricity due to the active use of air conditioners. However, you can save money in two ways: use electricity more efficiently or pay at a lower rate.

Фото: Depositphotos

According to the Energy Information Administration, retail electricity sales peak in July and August, writes USA Today.

The average electricity bill varies dramatically depending on circumstances. In 2014, the national average paid $114,09 per month for electricity. But in Hawaii, for example, the price of electricity was the highest, averaging $187,59, while in New Mexico it was $77,79 per month.

No matter where you live, here are some tips to help you save:

1. Choose your suppliers electricity

If you live in Washington, DC or one of these 15 states - California, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode -Island and Texas - you have the opportunity to choose between competing electricity providers. At least 17,2 million households (13% of total electricity customers) switched from utilities to retail providers.

2. Take advantage of utilities programs

Even if you cannot choose among competing electricity providers, you can save money by taking part in various incentive programs. Depending on the utility, programs mainly include:

• reduced payment in case you reduce power consumption during rush hour;
• various expertise that will help homeowners understand their consumption patterns and make suggestions for improving energy efficiency.

3. Mom was right: “Close the door, we’re not cooling the street.”

“Common sense will serve you well when it comes to reducing your electricity use,” said Branko Terzic, a former commissioner of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and currently managing director of Berkeley Research Group. In addition to rational use of the refrigerator, disconnecting chargers from the network and more, Terzic suggests that consumers not use old equipment. If you buy new equipment, for example, a refrigerator, you should not take the old one to the basement and continue to use it. This is extremely ineffective.

4. Smart thermostat

The smart thermostat automatically controls the room temperature based on a previously set program. The Nest Learning Thermostat even finds out your temperature preferences when you are at home, and not only. But it sells for $ 250. For those who can not allocate this amount, there are basic smart thermostats for $ 100.

You can also upgrade to smart lighting, which automatically adjusts brightness based on conditions in your home, such as the availability of daylight. Smart light bulbs cost from $15 to $100, but the consumer can save up to 30% of electricity.

Read also on ForumDaily:

A guide for an immigrant in New York: how you can save on medical care

How a Virginia family saved $ 1 million over 11 years

What benefits and benefits receive after serving in the US Army

Do you want more important and interesting news about life in the USA and immigration to America? — support us donate! Also subscribe to our page Facebook. Select the “Priority in display” option and read us first. Also, don't forget to subscribe to our РєР ° РЅР ° Р »РІ Telegram  and Instagram- there is a lot of interesting things there. And join thousands of readers ForumDaily New York — there you will find a lot of interesting and positive information about life in the metropolis.