Simple ways to cut household utility bills

Small changes, from better lighting to cleaner filters, can help Maine homes use less energy and keep monthly costs under control.

With grocery prices and fuel costs both weighing on budgets, there are plenty of reminders that daily life is expensive.

In Maine, paying for electricity, hot water and home heating adds another layer to the monthly household budget. The Maine Department of Energy Resources says the state uses more residential heating oil per person than any other state, and roughly half of households depend on it as their main heating source. As temperatures fall, looking for savings becomes even more important.

Utility rates cannot be changed at home, but a few practical steps may help reduce what you pay each month. There is no need to overhaul everything at once. Start with a few light bulbs, inspect the air filter and review what remains plugged in. Small adjustments like these can help you better understand both your energy use and your bills.

Think about replacing older lighting.

Switching older bulbs to LEDs is an easy way to cut electricity use without sacrificing brightness. Reliant says a standard incandescent bulb uses about 60 watts, while an LED typically uses only 8 to 12 watts to produce the same light. Many households have already made the switch, but it is worth checking less-used fixtures as well.

Look for devices that use power even when idle.

Some electronics continue drawing electricity even when they seem to be off. These energy vampires can include kitchen appliances, DVRs and computers. Saving power does not have to mean unplugging everything before bed. Smart power strips can automatically shut off power to connected accessories when a main device, such as a television, is turned off. Before using one, check how it functions and which items should stay on.

Check the temperature setting on your water heater.

A hot shower is a comfort, but heating water more than necessary can raise your bill. The U.S. Department of Energy says water heating makes up about 18% of a home’s utility costs. Some water heaters are set to 140 degrees by default, even though 120 degrees is enough for many households. Lowering the temperature may reduce the energy needed to heat water. Be sure to review the manufacturer’s instructions and your household’s needs before making any change.

Do not overlook HVAC filters.

Air filters are easy to forget until you take one out and see how much dust and debris it has trapped. A clogged filter limits airflow, forcing the heating and cooling system to work harder to move air. That extra strain uses more energy and can increase your bill. Carrier recommends replacing filters every 30 to 90 days. Set a reminder to check yours regularly and follow the guidance for your system and filter.