Guide
How to reduce a home electric bill
Lower electricity use by finding the biggest loads first, then addressing heating and cooling, water heating, lighting, appliances, and avoidable standby use.
At a glance
- First step
- Compare usage over time and identify major loads
- Large opportunity
- Heating and cooling are major energy uses in many homes
Overview
Electric bills reflect energy consumption and the utility's rate structure. The largest savings usually come from reducing large, repeated loads rather than obsessing over tiny devices. Climate control, electric water heating, dryers, cooking, pool equipment, and inefficient appliances can dominate household use depending on the home.
Find the high-energy systems
Review utility history and use an energy assessment, smart meter data, or plug-in measurement where appropriate. Focus first on equipment that runs for long periods or draws substantial power, such as HVAC, water heating, dryers, dehumidifiers, and older refrigeration.
Improve the building and controls
Air sealing, insulation, efficient temperature settings, filter maintenance, efficient lighting, and replacing failed or unusually inefficient equipment can reduce demand. Evaluate major replacements using expected remaining life and operating cost, not energy labels alone.
Sources and review
MOOR's explanatory text is supported by the following source links.
- Energy Saver — U.S. Department of Energy
- Home Energy Assessments — U.S. Department of Energy