Managing Energy Costs

Today it is more important than ever to conserve energy. By using a little less electricity each day, we can help the environment and save money.

The first step to saving is knowing how much energy you use and what it is costing you. From there you can take the necessary steps to reduce your usage and costs.

Follow these guidelines to help save on your next energy bill:

Be Mindful of Appliance Use

  • Unplug electronic gadgets, such as chargers and appliances, when they aren’t in use. These gadgets are sometimes called "Energy Vampires" and use energy even when turned off.
  • Make sure your dishwasher and washing machine are always full before you run them as this will save energy and money.
  • Washing your clothes in cold water and you could save $6 a month. 
  • Save approximately $18 a month by turning your thermostat back approximately 4 degrees in the winter and up 3 degrees in the summer. 
  • Save a few dollars each month by dropping your water heater temperature to 130 degrees Fahrenheit. 
  • Leaving your computer for a while? Put it on standby and it will take less energy than shutting down and restarting.
  • Try 24 Hours of Saving Energy, an Earth Day inspired project to get you thinking about the ways in which you use your appliances.

Consider Energy Efficiency

  • Purchase energy-efficient appliances. They cut carbon pollution and save you money! Look for ENERGY STAR certified products, the official government-back symbol for energy efficiency.
  • Replace incandescent light bulbs throughout your home with more efficient compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs). Not only are CFLs more energy efficient, but they have a substantially longer life span than an incandescent bulb and will save you money. 
  • Seal leaky ductwork, caulking around windows, and weather stripping around doors for a potential $14 savings each month.
  • Install thicker insulation in your attic and you could save $35 a month.
  • Weather-proofing your home is a great way to save energy. Caulk your doors and windows, add insulation or add shades to use in the summer!
  • Fix leaking faucets. The constant drip wastes water, energy, and money, so repair them as soon as possible.

DEMEC Resources

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  • The Delaware Municipal Electric Corporation (DEMEC) offers Efficiency Smart. This program helps residents and business reduce their energy use and save money. It provides savings, electric bill advice, energy assessments and monitors, and more!Screen Shot 2022-06-27 at 2.08.54 PM
  • Power Savers offers a way to reduce energy costs for all customers by reducing the amount of power that is needed at peak hours. By using less power as a community during these times, the cost of power decreases; those savings are then passed from DEMEC to the consumer.