12 Tips To Reduce Your Electricity Bill in Wichita Kansas

How to Reduce Your Electricity Bill in Wichita, Kansas

Electricity bills can be a major expense for households in Wichita, Kansas. With the extreme weather conditions experienced in the region, it is not uncommon for residents to experience a significant increase in their electricity bills during the hot summer months or cold winters. However, there are several steps that homeowners and renters can take to reduce their electricity bills and save money.

#1 – Switch to LED Lights

Lighting accounts for a significant portion of electricity usage in most households. One simple way to reduce your electricity bill is to switch to energy-efficient LED lights. LED lights use up to 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. Although the initial cost of LED lights may be higher, they will save you money in the long run.

#2 – Use Power Strips

Many electronic devices continue to consume energy even when they are turned off, which is known as standby power. This can add up over time and increase your electricity bill. To prevent this, use power strips to turn off electronics when they are not in use. By turning off the power strip, you can ensure that all devices connected to it are completely shut down and not using any power.

#3 – Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances

Appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners are major consumers of electricity in most households. Investing in energy-efficient appliances can significantly reduce your electricity bill. Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR label, which indicates that they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. While energy-efficient appliances may have a higher upfront cost, they will save you money in the long run.

#4 – Adjust Your Thermostat

Heating and cooling your home accounts for a significant portion of your electricity bill. One way to reduce this expense is to adjust your thermostat. During the winter, set your thermostat to 68°F or lower during the day and 60°F or lower at night. During the summer, set your thermostat to 78°F or higher. If you are away from home for an extended period, consider turning off your heating and cooling systems entirely.

#5 – Seal Air Leaks

Air leaks can cause your heating and cooling systems to work harder than necessary, increasing your electricity bill. Check your doors, windows, and walls for any drafts or gaps and seal them using weatherstripping, caulk, or foam insulation. By sealing air leaks, you can keep your home more comfortable and reduce your energy usage.

#6 – Use Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans can be an effective way to reduce your reliance on air conditioning during the summer months. Ceiling fans create a cooling breeze that can make a room feel up to 8 degrees cooler. By using ceiling fans, you can raise your thermostat setting and reduce your electricity usage.

#7 – Use Natural Light

During the day, make use of natural light instead of turning on lights. Open blinds and curtains to let in as much natural light as possible. This can help to reduce your electricity bill and create a more comfortable environment in your home.

#8 – Unplug Chargers

Chargers for electronic devices such as phones and laptops continue to consume energy even when they are not in use. To prevent this, unplug chargers when they are not being used. By doing so, you can reduce your electricity usage and save money on your electricity bill.

#9 – Reduce Hot Water Usage

Heating water accounts for a significant portion of your electricity bill. To reduce this expense, consider taking shorter showers or installing low-flow showerheads. You can also wash clothes in cold water and run your dishwasher on the energy-saving setting to reduce your hot water usage.

#10 – Participate in Energy Efficiency Programs

Evergy, our local electricity supplier in Wichita, offers energy efficiency programs to their customers. There are also federal tax credit options for some home upgrades as well. These programs can provide incentives, rebates, or discounts for energy-efficient upgrades or changes in behavior.

#11 – Plant Trees and Shrubs

Planting trees and shrubs around your home can provide shade and reduce the amount of direct sunlight that enters your home during the summer months. This can help to keep your home cooler and reduce your reliance on air conditioning. In addition, trees and shrubs can provide insulation during the winter months, reducing your heating costs.

#12 – Monitor Your Electricity Usage

Many electricity providers offer tools that allow customers to monitor their electricity usage in real-time. By monitoring your usage, you can identify areas where you may be using more electricity than necessary and make changes to reduce your consumption. You can also set goals and track your progress over time.

There are many ways to reduce your electricity bill in Wichita. By following these tips, you can save money on your electricity bill while also reducing your environmental impact. Some of these tips may require an initial investment, but they will save you money in the long run. By making small changes in your daily habits and investing in energy-efficient upgrades, you can significantly reduce your electricity bill and create a more sustainable home.