#EcoMonday: Resolve to Save Money on Your Electric Bill

With a new year come new resolutions. Lots of people commit to cutting calories or exercising more, but we’re focused on slimming something just as important—your electric bill!

According to the Energy Star, the average household spends $2,000 a year on electricity. We’ve put together 12 simple ways to save energy, which will not only save you money but also help the environment. And these steps are way easier than the kind you’d take on in aerobics class.

Here’s a sneak peek at all of our electricity bill-slimming steps. But don’t worry—we’ll break down all the details each month, starting next week with our January step.

How to save money (and electricity):

Step 1: See the Light
Did you know that each of those twisty CFL bulbs can actually save you more than $40 in energy savings? ¹

Step 2: Make a New Routine
Setting your thermostat a few degrees cooler in the winter and a few degrees warmer in the summer can cut your bill by around $180 a year. ¹

Step 3: Examine Your Outlets
Are your external electric outlets letting air (and money) escape? We’ll help you seal ‘em up and keep your heated and cooled air inside.

Step 4: Wear Your Shades
Blinds and drapes aren’t just for privacy—they also prevent heat loss and gain from the sun.

Step 5: Look for Leaks
Leaky ducts can reduce your home’s energy efficiency by 20%, which costs you more and puts more stress on your HVAC system.

Step 6: Go Dark
Dimmers, motion sensors and timers can make your lighting more efficient—and less expensive in terms of bulbs and electricity usage.

Step 7: Get Some Fans
Did you know that most ceiling fans have a winter setting? Using fans in summer and winter can help you use your HVAC less—and save electricity.

Step 8: Watch Your Water
When was the last time you thought about your water heater? Using the correct temperature settings and insulation can mean big savings on your electric bill.

Step 9: Bulk Up
Adding extra insulation to your attic or crawlspace can cost less than being poorly insulated. We’ll show you how to evaluate your insulation situation.

Step 10: Remove Those Warts
Are your power cords sucking energy—and money from your home?

Step 11: Check Your Fridge
Is your garage fridge or deep freezer sabotaging your electric bill?

Step 12: Make a Plan
Does your electric plan fit your life and your budget? At First Choice Power, we’ve got a lot of options designed to help you save money. We can help you evaluate your electric plan and make sure you’re on the one that’s right for you.

Who’s ready?! Who’s set?! If you’re excited about saving money and electricity in 2012, let us know by posting a comment below, and we’ll enter you in a drawing to win a free, energy saving weatherization kit !The winner will be announced by January 31.

And don’t forget to subscribe to the Current blog so you don’t miss any of the steps. Look for Step 1: See the Light coming next Monday.

¹ Source: http://www.energystar.gov/