Energy bills may seem like a never-ending expense for many households, but according to real estate expert Eric Bramlett, there are five key things you can do in your home to make them “melt away.” While most people focus on major appliances like refrigerators and washing machines when it comes to saving energy, there are several smaller items that can quietly drain power, leading to increased costs over time. Turning off these appliances when not in use can make a significant difference in your energy consumption and ultimately reduce your bills.
First on the list is games consoles. Although they have energy-saving modes, leaving them on standby mode can still consume power. Many people overlook fully powering them down, resulting in unnecessary energy usage. Eric Bramlett emphasises the importance of switching off consoles when not in use, as this simple action can lead to noticeable savings on energy bills.
Another culprit for guzzling energy is cable or satellite boxes. Leaving these devices on standby can surprisingly add up to your monthly energy costs. Eric shared a personal anecdote about a friend who saw a difference in their electricity bills after unplugging the cable box when not in use. Being mindful of these small changes can contribute to significant energy savings over time.
Older appliances are also worth considering. As appliances age, they tend to become less energy-efficient, leading to increased power consumption. Particularly, old refrigerators can be major energy hogs. While it may not be practical to turn off these essential appliances, upgrading to newer, more energy-efficient models can help reduce energy usage and lower your bills in the long run.
Microwave ovens, surprisingly, also contribute to energy consumption even when not in use, as they draw power to maintain the clock display. Eric suggests either unplugging the microwave or using a power strip to switch it off completely, which can help cut down on unnecessary energy wastage and potentially reduce your electricity bill.
Lastly, desktop computers are highlighted as significant energy users compared to laptops. Eric’s straightforward advice is to shut down desktop computers when not in use to see noticeable savings on energy bills. These five simple actions can make a significant impact on your energy consumption and help lower your overall energy costs. By being mindful of the energy usage of these common household items and making small changes, households can take steps towards more sustainable and cost-effective energy consumption.