How to Trim Your Electric Bill in 5 Minutes a Day

1What Actually Drives Up a Home Electric Bill

Heating and cooling account for the biggest chunk of most home power bills, with old appliances and devices left plugged in close behind.

A central air unit alone can use more electricity than most other appliances in the house combined during hot months. Water heaters and older refrigerators are usually the next biggest users.

2The Fastest Way to Cut Your Cooling and Heating Costs

Moving your thermostat a few degrees toward the outdoor temperature and sealing air leaks around doors and windows cuts your biggest cost without buying anything new.

A programmable or smart thermostat can adjust the temperature automatically while you sleep or while you are away, so you stop paying to heat or cool an empty house. Weatherstripping on one drafty door alone can make a noticeable difference.

1. Set your thermostat a few degrees higher in summer and lower in winter
2. Check weatherstripping around doors and windows and replace any that is worn
3. Use ceiling fans so you can raise the thermostat without losing comfort

3Simple Appliance Habits That Lower Your Usage

Running your dishwasher, washer and dryer during off peak hours and unplugging electronics you are not using can shave real usage off your bill every month.

Many utilities charge more for power used in the late afternoon and early evening, so shifting laundry and dishes to morning or night avoids the higher rate. A charger or game console left plugged in still pulls a small amount of power around the clock.

1. Check your utility's off peak hours on a past bill or their site
2. Run your dishwasher and washer after off peak hours start
3. Unplug or use a power strip for electronics you are not using

4How a Savings Membership Adds Cash Back on Top

On top of cutting usage, a savings membership can give you cash back or rebates on bills and purchases you are already making, so savings add up from two directions at once.

These memberships usually work by giving you a percentage back on everyday bills and purchases through partner offers, similar to a cash back card but without needing one. You do not have to switch utility providers to use one.

1. Join a savings membership that covers household bills
2. Link or enter the bills you want cash back on
3. Check your account each month for the cash back you earned