Texas Energy Efficiency Tips For Homeowners

With hot summers and cold winters, Texas households use a lot of energy. But high electricity bills don’t have to be inevitable. Texans can reduce their energy consumption by taking simple steps and using energy-efficient appliances. They can also compare energy rates on ComparePower to find affordable power plans that match their usage profiles.

Turn Off Lights and Electronics When Not in Use

Turning off lights and electronics when not in use is one of the most straightforward ways to conserve electricity. This easy trick will significantly reduce energy costs, especially in the summer when air conditioning is used more frequently. Another easy way to save energy is to avoid using appliances during peak times, usually from 3-7 p.m. Still, if consumption spikes too much during these times, they must pay for additional power plants to come online. By participating in OhmConnect Energy’s free energy-saving programs, you can help reduce energy demand during these peak hours and put money back in your pocket. Also, remember to unplug electronic devices when not in use, especially those with active LED displays like TVs and chargers. These “vampire” electronics consume significant energy, even in sleep or standby mode. A power strip can make this process easier by allowing you to plug all your devices into a single outlet.

Shop Around for a Better Power Plan

If your electricity provider is attempting to raise your rates, you need to start shopping around for a new electricity provider. Electricity companies don’t owe you any loyalty, and when you sign a contract with one, you should be looking for the best rate from the best electric company in Texas. The deregulated Texas energy market is a good thing, but it can also be confusing. Energy providers compete for customers, and when they see a loyal customer who never shops for the best rate, they may be tempted to charge more to make more money off their existing customers.

You must know your home’s historical usage information for the best rate. It can be found in your previous energy bills. Once you have this, a site will find you the best energy plans in your area. The process takes less than five minutes, and you won’t be obligated to sign up for any programs you see. The best part is you can switch providers whenever you want without any fees or interruptions in service.

Keep Refrigerators and Freezers Full

During these periods of high energy demand, Texans can do simple things like adjusting their thermostats up a few degrees during the day and running ceiling fans counter-clockwise to help reduce power consumption. Those simple changes can add up, especially since much energy is used to cool homes during summer. Another easy tip is to keep refrigerators and freezers full at all times. Refrigerators work best when full because they need “thermal mass” to maintain cold temperatures, so food provides that. A full freezer can stay frozen for 48 hours if a power outage occurs, whereas a half-full freezer can only maintain its ice for 24 hours.

Install a Smart Thermostat

As the Texas heat continues, electric bills in the Lone Star State are expected to rise. While the AC may be necessary, you can take steps to use less electricity while staying cool. One such tip is to avoid using any appliances during peak hours. While this may be difficult, it can save up to 10% on your energy bill. Peak hours are usually between 1:00 and 7:00 p.m. Another tip is to invest in a smart thermostat. These devices can save money by automatically adjusting your home’s temperature when you’re away or asleep. They can also provide you with helpful energy reports that help you understand how your use has changed. Finding a smart thermostat that works with your HVAC system is crucial but simple. In some cases, you may need to establish what’s known as a C wire, but this is typically only a problem in older homes. Be sure to consult with a professional to ensure the thermostat is installed correctly.

Get a Smart Meter

The hottest days of summer can cause your air conditioning to work overtime, which results in higher electric bills. Other energy-consuming appliances, including a constantly running television or an old fan, can also increase your monthly bill. A smart meter can give you more detailed information about your energy usage. This way, you can see how your energy usage compares to the previous month or week and make changes accordingly. It can also notify the utility company about power outages faster than traditional meters, which can reduce the length of outages and the number of truck rolls needed to restore service. High electric bills are a common problem in Texas, but there are ways to save money on your electricity. You can implement energy efficiency practices, change your air conditioning settings, and even switch to a different electric provider. With the deregulation of the energy sector, Texans now have more options than ever to save on their electricity.