Nine ideas to save on your bill

It’s no secret that energy prices are on the rise and the amount of non-renewable energy resources, such as coal and natural gas, is on the decline. South Central Power strives to put energy and cost-saving solutions into the hands of our members, and there are actions you can take to save on your energy bill. Little changes can make a big difference over time in the amount you pay for energy.

Saving energy is saving money. Tactics to save energy come in all shapes and sizes, including steps you can take today at no cost. Or, you can spend a little money to achieve greater savings and make some minor investments in your home to help save even more. Here are some ideas to help you save.

No-cost savings

Using a toaster oven instead of an electric range can save you money over time. The cost for using the oven for an hour is about $1.42, while a toaster oven costs about 18 cents. Better yet, using a slow cooker for an hour costs about 1 cent.

Turn down your thermostat to save, and instead of using a portable space heater, you can save by using an electric blanket. The difference over time can add up — a space heater costs about 18 cents an hour, while an electric blanket costs just 2 cents.

Close shades and drapes during the day to help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This will reduce your heating and cooling energy use, which is often the largest part of your bill.

Budget-friendly ideas

Traditional lighting can account for up to 12% of your monthly energy use. Replacing your incandescent light bulbs with LEDs can slice lighting costs by about 75%.

Air sealing is an inexpensive way to lower energy costs and improve comfort. For the cost of a few cans of caulk or foam, you can seal gaps and holes in walls, floors, and ceilings. Look for cracks around windows and where wires and pipes pass through walls.

For about $23, you can buy a plug-in outlet Wi-Fi smart switch, which allows you to control plugged-in lights, fans, and other devices, right from an app.

Invest to save

Spend a bit more and purchase a smart thermostat, which you can set up to an automated schedule and control from an app.

If you haven’t replaced your outdoor security lights in a few years, consider purchasing a motion-sensing Wi-Fi LED bulb for less than $100.

Consider whether it’s time to buy a new refrigerator and/or freezer or replace your heating/cooling system. If you are using an old appliance, you may be using about three times as much energy to run it as you would to run one sold last year. Check the energy calculators in the Energy Toolklt on our website to determine the average costs of running your  appliances and more.

Looking for more ideas?

Check out the Energy Toolkit on our website or give us a call – our team of energy  advisors can help you understand ways reduce energy costs.

From the February 2025 issue of Ohio Cooperative Living.