Homeowners are always looking for ways to lower their electricity bills, especially during peak usage times like the middle of summer and the depths of winter. However, there is only so much you can do when it comes to basic tips like making sure unnecessary lights are turned off. If you’re unhappy with your monthly electricity bill and want to know how to lower it more, one of your best options is to look into electrical upgrades, such as appliances and advanced technology.
If you’re looking for an electrician in Buffalo, NY who can help you identify the best ways to lower your electricity bill, we’re definitely the people to consult. We can conduct an electrical audit of your home and help you pinpoint where new appliances and other upgrades can cut down on electrical costs. Below are some of our most common recommendations for energy-saving home upgrades:
LED Lighting
This is one of the easiest and most effective upgrades for older homes: get rid of those old incandescent and fluorescent lights and replace them with energy-saving LED lights. These lights are much more efficient than older lightbulbs, sending out identical (or better) illumination at a fraction of the energy cost. LED lights have other benefits as well, such as longer service lives and lower heat output. Our electricians can give your home a full LED retrofit.
Smart Home Technology
Have you considered embracing the new smart technology for your home, but don’t know where to begin? This is another place where we can help you out. Starting with smart thermostats, you can regulate your home’s temperature with much higher efficiency than using a manual thermostat. There are other great smart home devices like smart outlets that control how much power devices consume even when they aren’t in use. Integrating different smart systems together can make your home an overall energy-saver.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
You may have several older appliances in your home that are true “energy vampires”—it’s best to have them thrown out and replaced with new ENERGY STAR-certified appliances. Appliances to consider for upgrades include refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers. You’ll not only lower your energy bills but also contribute to a greener environment.
Insulation and Weatherstripping
The weather in Western New York makes it necessary for homes to have effective insulation and weatherstripping. This not only stops heat from escaping in winter and entering in summer so the house is more comfortable, it also removes heavy reliance on the HVAC system, one of the major consumers of power in a house. When you combine better insulation and weatherstripping with electrical upgrades, you’ll increase your energy-saving capabilities.
Energy-Efficient HVAC Systems
The HVAC system in your home is one of the biggest consumers of power. Unless you have an electric water heater, the air conditioning system is the appliance that uses the most electricity when it runs. We strongly recommend you upgrade older air conditioners, heat pumps, and electric furnaces to high-efficiency models. (Again, look for the ENERGY STAR label.)
Scherer Electric Is Western New York’s Favorite Electrician! Reach out to us today to learn how you can lower your home’s electrical usage.
