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Cut Your Electric Bills

© Wendy Waid

One of the biggest shocks for a new apartment renter is the utility/electricity bill, which often runs around $100 a month. With a few adjustments to your energy habits and environment, you can cut that bill down.

The first thing you need is a general overview of what appliances in your home waste the most energy. Check TVA's website, http://www.energyright.com/ideas/ideas0.... for a nice diagram. Second, you will want to learn how to read your utility meter (your landlord should show you where this is located). Learn to read both digital and dial meters at http://www.energyright.com/meter/meter.h... Meters keep track of how many kilowatt-hours you have used since your last bill. Always double-check your meter with your bill to be sure the dials were recorded correctly and you are being charged the correct amount.

The largest use of your electricity dollars goes into running the air conditioner and heating unit. There are several cheap and easy ways to keep cool without running that energy-draining air conditioner that is built into your unit (which is also probably not the most energy-conservative model available). The best way to keep cool is installing ceiling fans, if your apartment does not already have them. You can find ceiling fans in a wide range of prices from $20 up to $100. Check your local hardware store for specials, especially just before the weather turns hot or right after summer. Also, buy a few inexpensive floor or box fans to help circulate the air. If possible, try the fan at the store before buying to decide if it is powerful enough for your apartment space. Next, check where the sun is coming into your home. If you have a lot of windows, cover them up during the middle of summer to keep out the heat. Place some leafy plants on your porch to block some of the sun?s rays. If you can?t afford drapery, just cover your windows with a large bed sheet. If you do end up using your air conditioner, take the option of closing the vents in unused rooms. For more tips, you can read http://www.stretcher.com/stories/970630c... from The Dollar Stretcher. Although it?s aimed at homeowners, the story still provides some insights into saving money. Keep your thermostat around 68-70 F during the winter and 78-80 F during the summer to keep costs down.

The refrigerator is another top energy-using appliance in your home. If you want to save money, be sure to run your fridge at the right temperatures. Typically, your refrigerator should be between 38 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit and your freezer should be between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Not only will you save energy costs, it is important to keep your fridge running at these temperatures in order to kill bacteria and other harmful contaminants in foods. Clean the condenser coils annually and defrost the freezer annually. For more tips, check the Dollar Stretcher at http://www.stretcher.com/stories/960916b...

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