We all waste energy in ways we may not even realize. Leaving lights or fans on in empty rooms or electronics plugged in when not in use consume relatively small amounts of electricity (but should still be avoided). Does your home have some bigger energy hogs that are out of sight, out of mind?
Here are some unconventional energy users that could be adding more to your energy bill than they should.
Swimming Pools and Spas
They’re nice amenities, but pools and hot tubs can contribute significantly to your energy bill.
Your pool pump keeps the water circulating through its filtering system and could be the most energy-intensive part of your pool. Older pool pumps run continuously on a single, high-speed setting, but this circulation is more than the typical residential pool needs.
An Energy Star-certified pool pump can be programmed to run at various speeds depending on your pool’s needs—and can pay for itself in as little as two years.
If you heat your pool, make sure you’re doing so efficiently. In Texas, a little sun goes a long way. Pool heaters that run on natural gas or propane are most common, but an electric heat pump or a solar water heater could be more cost-effective options. Remember to put a cover on the pool when it’s not in use to keep your heater from working as hard.
If you have a hot tub or spa you occasionally use, consider turning it off when it’s not in use. If you use your spa frequently, use a well-insulated cover to keep the water warm and your electric bill low.
Pump Systems
Water pumps often run on electricity and can be found in many areas of your property.
Irrigation: If you have a larger property, you may have an irrigation system. Leaks in the system can greatly increase your pump’s electricity use.
Wells: If your home uses well water, you have a well pump to bring the water from the well to your home. A malfunctioning well pump may run continuously to try to maintain proper water pressure—this can cause a significant increase in your electricity bill.
Garden fountains: Fountains make a charming addition to any garden, but the pumps that run them use about as much energy as a small lamp. If you have multiple fountains in your garden, look into installing a timer so that the fountains only run part of the day.
Garages and Outbuildings
You may have some energy hogs in your other structures.
For example:
Do you have a second working, but inefficient, refrigerator or freezer plugged in? Is it in use, or can you consolidate its contents into your kitchen?
Do you have a recreational space in an uninsulated part of your home, like the garage? Using space heaters or portable air conditioners in uninsulated spaces can definitely lead to higher bills.
Home Business
If you run a business or work out of your home, there could be a large energy user contributing to your electric bill. For example, regularly using welding equipment, ceramic kilns or power tools can contribute significantly to your electric bill, as can equipment that supports home farming operations.
