My Hawaii’s utility bill is just out of this world. For comparison, when I lived in Arizona for the month of March last year, my bill was $50. My Hawaii March bill that I just received this year was $178.50! That is almost 3 times the cost! So I put my thinking cap on and researched easy ways to reduce my monthly utility bill. Here are the ones I found. On second thought maybe Hilo is throwing a party while we’re gone…
Set on Cold
We do not have an air conditioner since we live on the windward side of the island. So that means we just use the windward breeze and some fans to keep us cool. When I lived in Arizona, my AC was the number one culprit of my bill skyrocketing over $100 in the summer. Since I don’t have that, what is the new numero uno energy sucker? That would be the water heater ladies and gentlemen.
Daily showers, dishwashing machine, washing your hands, washing your clothes all use hot water. The solution?
Set everything on cold. If you love hot showers, take a cold one! Ok, if you are a big pansy and refuses to do so, make sure to keep showers short.
Put washer setting on cold if able and wash your hands with cold water. The islands even have a solar system designed to keep the cost of water heater to a minimum. I haven’t looked to much into it yet and the only thing I know is that it cost about two thousand bucks to have it installed so I have to get my calculations figured out in order to see if it is worth it.
Buy Energy Star Rated Appliances
Big appliances like refrigerators, dishwasher, ovens, and microwaves sucks up a lot of juice. This may surprise you but consoles and even computers can eat up tons of juice make sure that you have those electronics and appliances are energy star rated. The only thing I think is not energy efficient are consoles.
LED is the Future
Replace old school bulbs LED bulbs. You can save up to $936 dollars in energy on a pack of four 100 watt bulbs compared to old school incandescent bulbs. LED bulbs does not generate heat and can last up to 23 years! Think about that. More money in your pocket.
Vornado and Window Fans
I have two Vornado fans and 2 window fans and they keep the family much cooler in the summer. We also have ceiling fans to keep everything circulating. Save your AC on super-hot days…if you have an AC.
Be Aware
Be aware of light switches being on if you are not using them. Keep your ears keen just in case you hear a dripping faucet and turn off the fans and TV in the other room if nobody is there. All of these little things will keep the cost down and your wallet happy.
Unplug
If you’re going to be gone for long periods of time. Unplug it. I’m talking coffee maker, toaster, light fixtures, consoles and fans. All of these things can be energy vampires that can drain that little tiny bit of electricity even when not in use. Every bit counts and the more effort you put in, the more money you can save.
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