Kelly's Healthy Home

WOW! I know I’m not the only one shocked by my energy bill this past month! I haven’t seen dramatic changes over the last 2 years as some have. But last month definitely caught up to me. Maybe it was because we were home more often due to the holidays? Christmas tree lights on? Outside lights (even though many were solar powered)? More laundry or dishwasher usage? I’m sure these are all contributors, but I don’t think to justify that much of an increase.

Our local electric provider here in the Philadelphia area is PECO. They are part of a regional electric grid managed by PJM Interconnection, which oversees electricity planning and reliability for 13 states and Washington, D.C. Between PJM supply increases and approval from the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission for a $464 million rate increase, customer bills just seem to keep going up up up.

So what can we do to lower our electric bills?

First, you may consider solar options. I’m not going to dive into solar in this post. But it could be an option, whether a lease or purchase, to offset your usage. There are pros and cons and I find you really want to understand your break even point to see if it makes financial sense to you.

Beyond the solar route, being more conscious of day to day usage is more important than ever. Improving your awareness of energy consumption habits can prevent unnecessary energy waste and help you manage household expenses.

• During the winter months, make sure you’re turning down your heat when you are sleeping or away for work/school. Open your blinds on sunny days to use natural light to warm rooms. Each degree you lower the thermostat, you can save up to 5% on heating costs.
• Unplug appliances and electronics when not in use. Do you have a guest room that is rarely used? Go in there and unplug lamps. Kitchen appliances don’t need to be plugged in when not using. Make it easy on yourself by using smart power strips when possible.
• Turn off lights when you leave rooms and make sure you have LED bulbs.
• If you haven’t had your heater serviced yet, make sure you get that done to ensure it’s working more efficiently.

If you’re looking even for more efficiency within your home, that’s a smart idea too. But I’m empathetic that has more of a cost over a habit change. If you’re able to invest in more substantial upgrades, consider:

• Improving your attic insulation.
• Replace windows that are single panned or drafty
• Replace exterior doors, improve weather stripping and consider storm doors.
• Upgrade your heating and cooling systems. Replacing old heating and cooling equipment with higher efficiency models can reduce energy use by 50% in some cases

Check back with me next month to let me know if you’ve seen any differences after implementing some changes.

Here’s to a more sustainable winter and doing what we can to make our bills more affordable!

Need help paying your bills? PECO does offer options- https://www.peco.com/my-account/customer-support/assistance-programs