Some Energy Saving Tips: How I Cut Down My Electricity Bill 40 Percent

So it's Summer and most of us will be cranking up the air conditioner to ward off summer blues. The heat is no joke, and causes many health problems for people of all ages. Where I live the climate is hot and dry. There is usually not much relief in price when it comes to the electricity bill. The gas bill is a whole other topic in itself. I live in a one bedroom apartment on the second floor. I am a poor college student trying to make it through and maybe learn some important lessons a long the way.

Here are some practical tips on how to save on your electricity bill, which is also great for the environment (Conservation).

1) I replaced all of the standard bulbs in the apartment with fluorescent bulbs. They are safer for the environment, plus they last longer (6 times longer) than regular bulbs). I just went to Walmart to buy mine, also they are pr oven to be brighter than standard bulbs as well. Although the price is a little steep, the benefit you get out of these types of bulbs make up for the shortcomings.

2) Turn off lights when your not using them. This means when your done with something unplug it, including appliances.

3) Power strip all appliances. I have two in my apartment: one for my computer, router, and external hard-drive, another for my big screen TV and vacuum cleaner as well. It is proven that just leaving appliances plugged in without the power on with burn a constant rate of 40% more electricity and you will see what I mean when you get your next power bill. With the power strip you have full control when all of the appliances are on and off. When your not home just flip your power strip off and wallah.

4) Keep your AC set to 78.0 degrees F all day long when you are home this is the perfect temperature to create a balance in your living space. A comfortable, yet affordable setting.

5) Keep blinds closed in the day, make sure to buy some blinds that cover all of the window.

6) Check insulation in windows, and make sure no open extremities give hot air a way to get inside! It keeps the bugs out as well, which can never be a bad thing.

7) One of my favorite- Wash your dishes by hand! Why use the dishwasher? It wastes water, and electricity, plus mine does not work half of the time anyway. Air dry laundry outside, it cuts down on the dryer bill also.

8) Limit your showers and do not run water in between brushing teeth or washing dishes. It not only cuts back on electricity, but also your water bill.

Just some tips I have discovered while living on my own. My first power bill came to 50 dollars. After installing my new bulbs and cutting down on electricity consumption I knocked my power bill down to 29 dollars last month. I am proud of myself for saving money, and helping out the environment at the same time.