Use less energy and cut your bill

If you are like me you dread getting your power bill in the mail every month. Even if you don't, I'm sure you would like to save a few bucks.

Beth Thomas with Alabama Power says there are simple steps to cut that bill down.

In the majority of homes, Thomas says, it the heating and cooling that consumes the most energy; about 50 percent. After that its miscellaneous appliances at 30 percent, water heating at 14 percent and lighting at 6 percent.

Since the majority of our money goes to heat and cool our homes, its no surprise the best way to cut the bill is at the thermostat.

“You want to look at keeping your thermostat at about 68 degrees in the winter and 78 degrees in the summertime,” said Thomas.

Thomas says to help keep the temperature comfortable use ceiling fans but make sure to turn them off when you leave the room.

Another way to keep your home cozy is with window shades. Thomas says in the summer try and keep them closed, that will limited the amount of heat from the sun.

In the winter, open them up and enjoy the rays.

“You get some natural sunlight from outside and that helps to keep your home a little bit warmer,” said Thomas.

Something many of us forget about is our air filter. Thomas says keeping it clean is key.

“As these filters collect dust and grim, your heating and cooling system has to work harder so it uses more energy,” said Thomas.

Heating your water is another big energy consumer. Thomas says to put insulation around the pipes leading in and outside the house from the water heater. Also, if your water heater is not in a climate controlled area, put a water heater blanket on it to keep it from being affected by heat or cold.

Our refrigerators also can cause some problems on energy bills. Thomas says test the seal on your fridge with a dollar bill. Close the door around the bill and slowly pull it out. It should have a little bit of resistance.

As add more and more electronics into our lives, our bill grows.

“Computers, televisions, stereos, DVD players. When we have those electronic items turned off they are still consuming energy,” said Thomas.

The best way to solve this problem, get a power strip. When you leave you can just flip a switch instead of unplugging everything one by one.

If you want to see how you can save money at your house, Alabama Power will come out for free and see where you are loosing money. You can find that, interactive aides and tips on the companies website.