This summer, prices and temperatures are soaring.
But with some resourcefulness, Americans can bring down their electricity bill by about $130 each year.
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There are zero-cost steps households can take to bring down their energy billCredit: Getty – Contributor
There are five tips, rounded out by CNET, that Americans can use.
While energy costs vary by state, the average monthly electricity bill is about $115.
In Hawaii, households pay as much as $168.
Costs are much lower in Utah, where folks pay $76 per month.
This is according to the Department of Energy’s Annual Electric Power Report.
But, with the following steps, households could save up to 10% off their energy bill.
This comes out to roughly $130 each year for the average household.
Use a smart thermostat
Smart thermostats manage your home’s heating and cooling.
The best part is they are app-enabled, meaning you can power them from your phone.
Many models can also be controlled with Alexa or Siri.
The US Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to seven to ten degrees warmer.
If this is done for eight hours a day, you can reduce your bill by up to 10% off.
Set thermostats higher
While the Department of Energy recommends setting temperatures seven to ten degrees higher, CNET has said five degrees will do the trick.
Setting thermostats higher maximizes efficiency, they report.
Close the shades
Another way to trim energy costs is to pull the shades, as heat is drawn to them.
The darker the shade, the more heat will be attracted.
If your air conditioner is on auto-pilot, this will also prevent it from running as often.
The Department of Energy stated shades can reduce heat by as much as 33%.
Try a dehumidifier
If you live in a humid climate, using a dehumidifier can help pull moisture from the air.
This will make the air in each room more dry and comfortable.
It also reduces the strain on air conditioning.
Put in window awnings
Window awnings are shades placed on the outside of the home above each window.
They essentially block the sun.
According to CNET, they reduce heat gain by up to 77%.
For more on energy savings, The Sun covered appliances that can cost you even when powered off.
Plus, low-income Americans could see $240 payments to help curb gas prices.
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