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How To Reduce Your Electricity Bill

Learn a few easy ways to lower your monthly energy costs.

At Choose Energy, our reporters seek out information that puts you in control of your energy. Our partners do not direct our editorial content, though we may reference their products in our posts. Read about how we make money to learn more.

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Looking for ways to lower your electricity bill?

Our energy experts recommend two easy ways to reduce your electricity bill: using less electricity and switching your energy plan for a cheaper rate. Choose Energy can help you compare rates and plans in your area to find a more affordable option. Simply enter your ZIP code on this page to get started today.

Learn how to lower your energy consumption with this guide and start saving on your energy bills.

Ways to save energy and lower your electric bill

The amount of electricity you consume has the largest impact on your energy bill. Luckily, there are a few low-cost ways to reduce your home’s energy usage. Consider a few of these tips from our energy experts.

Unplug unused electronics

Electronics and appliances continue to drain energy when plugged in but not in use; this is called vampire energy. An easy fix for this is to regularly unplug your unused devices. Common culprits include computers, game consoles, toasters, monitors, and more. Try to make a habit of unplugging your devices when you’re done using them. You could also purchase a smart power strip with a timer and power-saving mode so you can set it and forget it.

Turn off the lights

This easy trick can have a huge impact. Lighting accounts for a significant portion of your energy bill. To cut down on this energy consumption, build the habit of turning off lights when you leave the room.

Switch to LED lightbulbs

LED light bulbs use 75% less electricity than incandescent models and have a lifespan of up to 25 times longer. Switching to LED light bulbs is a cheap way to save money and lower your electricity consumption.

Schedule maintenance on your HVAC system

HVAC systems get dirty and build up over time, which causes them to work less effectively. Schedule routine maintenance to ensure your HVAC system works efficiently and doesn’t unnecessarily increase your energy bill. It’s best to schedule this maintenance before summer or winter when you typically rely on heating and cooling more frequently, and when electricity bills tend to increase.

Invest in energy-efficient appliances

While this option isn’t the cheapest way to lower your electricity consumption, it is worth mentioning for its energy-saving opportunity. If you have old appliances nearing the end of their lifespan, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient option. ENERGY STAR is a great option for efficient products backed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. For example, ENERGY STAR washers and dryers use about 20% less energy than conventional models. Over time, those savings can help you decrease your home’s carbon footprint and save on your energy bill.

Switch to a cheaper energy plan

In deregulated markets, you can switch your energy plan for a cheaper rate. Choose Energy can help you find a more affordable plan to help lower your energy costs. Here’s how to switch providers:

  • Enter your ZIP code: Explore the best providers and plans available in your area with just your ZIP code.
  • Compare your options: Filter the results to best fit your needs. You can filter by rate type, contract length, provider, renewable energy, and more.
  • Sign up online or over the phone: You can sign up directly on our marketplace in minutes. If you would like more assistance, call the number on your screen to work with one of our energy agents.

Keep in mind that if you’re under contract with your current energy provider, you may have to pay an early termination fee (ETF) to end your service. Check your Electricity Facts Label (EFL) to learn about any fees you may incur.

FAQs about energy bills

Why is my electricity bill so high?

There could be multiple reasons why your electricity bill seems high. It is most likely due to your energy usage or a high electricity rate. Take steps to lower your energy consumption, or consider switching your energy plan for a cheaper rate. You can explore available plans on our marketplace to find a more affordable option. We recommend switching in early spring or late fall, as these are often the cheapest times of year to shop for energy plans.

What is the cheapest type of energy plan?

Our energy experts recommend choosing a fixed-rate plan for the most energy savings. Fixed-rate plans provide stability to customers who want to avoid spikes in the energy market. With a fixed-rate plan, your energy rate is consistent and your electricity bills are more predictable.