Electricity has become essential to modern life, powering everything from lights and appliances to electronic devices. But how much electricity does the average household use? And what can we do to reduce our energy consumption and save money on utility bills? This article will explore these questions and provide some valuable tips for reducing energy usage.
The Amount of Electricity Used by the Average Household
According to the US Energy Information Administration, the average household in the United States uses about 877 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per month, or around 10,572 kWh per year. This translates to an average monthly bill of about $117.19 for an average household.
Factors That Affect Electricity Usage
Many factors can affect a household’s electricity usage, including the size of the home, the number of occupants, the types of appliances and devices used, and the climate. Homes in warmer temperatures tend to use more electricity for air conditioning. In contrast, those in colder regions may use more for heating.
Tips for Reducing Energy Consumption
The following are some practical steps that can help to reduce energy consumption and lower your monthly utility bills.
Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
Many appliances, devices, and lighting options have an Energy Star rating, indicating that they use less electricity than standard versions of the same products. Energy Star appliances typically use about 20 less electricity than standard models. If a homeowner were to replace all of their standard appliances with Energy Star models, the annual cost savings from reduced energy consumption could range from around $100 to several hundred dollars, depending on the appliances used and the local electric rates in place.
Check That Insulation Is in Good Shape
Heat can easily escape through poorly insulated walls and ceilings, leading to higher utility bills and unnecessary air conditioning usage. It’s important to have insulation in good shape before the start of each heating season. It may be necessary to replace some sections if they’ve become damaged since last year.
Replace Incandescent Bulbs With Compact Fluorescent Bulbs
Standard incandescent bulbs use about 75% more electricity than compact fluorescent bulbs. CFLs last about 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs and contain no toxic mercury vapor. CFLs are also not affected by the heat of a nearby heater or an air conditioner, which is one of the main concerns with incandescent bulbs.
Reduce Appliance Timer Use
Most household appliances have a timer that automatically turns them on and off at specified times, such as when the homeowner leaves and returns. Some energy efficiency experts suggest that people should reset their appliances’ timers so that they turn off just before they leave and turn themselves on just as they return home.
By being mindful of our energy usage and making simple changes, we can reduce our environmental impact and save money on our utility bills. It’s also essential to keep electricity usage in mind when constructing any new homes or remodeling a an existing house. Contact Comeaux Electrical Services today if you need assistance with lighting installation, generators, or more in Lafayette, LA.
