Why Is My Electric Bill So High?

Why Is My Electric Bill So High?

Helpful Tips, Residential Electric

Have you ever opened your electricity bill, only to be met with a jaw-dropping, eye-popping number that seems much higher than what you were expecting? If so, you’re not alone. Having a high electric bill that’s unexplainable can be frustrating, especially when you’re already trying to stay within budget. But fear not — because we’re here to help you uncover the most common reasons for high electric bills and show you a few tricks to help you save money in the long run.

So, why is your electric bill so high, exactly? We’ll discuss a few possible culprits in more detail below.

Your Appliances and Electronics are Energy Hogs

One of the most common reasons why your electric bill is so high is your appliances and electronics. Older appliances are some of the biggest energy hogs, consuming large amounts of electricity over the course of a year.

If you have some appliances that have been with you for over a decade, it might be time to upgrade them. Energy Star-certified appliances, for example, are known for being highly energy efficient, meaning they’re designed to conserve the most energy and can help you save money on your electric bill.

Your Regular Light Bulbs are Letting You Down

Did you know that using incandescent light bulbs could be one of the reasons for high electric bills? If you think this could possibly be the case for you, it’s time to upgrade to LED or other energy-efficient options.

You must know that LED lights last longer than incandescent bulbs and use significantly less electricity, which will most likely be reflected in your bill. Although switching out a single bulb may not make a huge difference, making the switch over your entire home can lead to significant savings in the long run.

LED lights are a cost-effective option, as they require less wattage to produce the same amount of light as an incandescent bulb. Plus, they last much longer and don’t produce as much heat as their incandescent counterparts, which means less work for your HVAC system.

You’re Heating Water More Than You Should

While hot water is a necessity, heating too much water or letting the shower run longer than needed can add up. So, although water heaters are crucial to everyday life, relying on the one in your home too often could be why your electric bill is so high.

You can cut down your bill by using an energy-efficient water heater. Plus, cutting back on your showers, taking cooler baths, and washing your clothes with cold water ensures that you’re using your hot water in the most efficient way possible.

Utility Company’s Rates and Electricity Usage

Although there are many reasons for high electric bills that you have control over, there are some that may not be entirely in your hands. For example, utility companies fluctuate with the seasons, and they tend to hike their rates — particularly during high usage periods.

Plus, you may have been using more electricity lately, especially if the weather has changed or you’ve had visitors staying in your home. Keep watch for any rate increases, and be mindful of your electricity usage. You can reduce your usage by doing things like turning off lights when you leave a room, unplugging electronics you’re not using, turning off your air conditioning unit while you’re out, and so on.

Your HVAC System Requires Attention

Your HVAC system is, undoubtedly, one of your home’s most significant energy consumers. As a result, a poorly-maintained air conditioner or heating system could be why your electric bill is so high.

For example, a dirty filter makes it harder for air to circulate, forcing your HVAC system to work overtime and consume more energy at a higher rate. Make replacing these filters a priority. If you have an older system, it could require a replacement. Plus, you can help your system operate more efficiently by sealing windows and doors, adding insulation, and using curtains and blinds to block out heat in the warmer months.

How to Save Money on Your Electric Bills

So, do you want to know how you can save money on your monthly bills? If so, it’s important to understand how your electricity bill is calculated. Your electric bill is measured per kilowatt-hour, which is the cost of using 1,000 watts of energy for an hour. You can calculate your own rates by looking at your bill and comparing it to previous months. Once you know how much you’re spending, you can start saving energy and seeing a reduction in your monthly electric bill.

Schedule Services With Our Professional Electricians Today!

It’s no secret that there can be many reasons for high electric bills. However, you can take control of your monthly expenses by being mindful of the many different factors that affect your energy usage.

Are you ready to upgrade to energy-efficient LED lights, or do you have another electrical project in mind? Call the experts at Staley Electric! We specialize in everything from security lighting installations to electrical panel repair. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Do Ceiling Fans Save Energy?

Do Ceiling Fans Save Energy?

Ceiling Fans, Helpful Tips

Living in the sweltering heat of Little Rock, you want to sufficiently cool your home without breaking the bank. As experts in home comfort solutions, we often get asked: “Do ceiling fans save energy?” The answer is a resounding yes. 

Ceiling fans are not just about circulating air and creating a cool ambiance; they can also play a significant role in lowering your energy bills. Discover how ceiling fans work and explore additional electrical upgrades that can lead to energy savings.

Understanding How Ceiling Fans Work

If you want to learn how ceiling fans lower energy bills, it’s crucial to delve into the workings of these devices.

Ceiling fans operate on the simple principle of air circulation. The fan blades displace air downwards when they spin, which creates a wind chill effect. This makes the room feel cooler, even though the temperature hasn’t actually decreased.

It’s crucial to understand that although a ceiling fan creates a cooler sensation for those in the room, it doesn’t actually lower the temperature. For optimal energy efficiency, it is recommended to switch off a ceiling fan when the room is not in use. Otherwise, it will consume unnecessary energy without providing any cooling benefits.

Do Ceiling Fans Save Energy More Than Air Conditioning?

When compared to air conditioners, ceiling fans consume significantly less energy. An AC unit cools the air by removing heat and pumping out cool air, which requires a lot of electricity. In contrast, a ceiling fan circulates the air, consuming much less energy.

Using ceiling fans means you can raise your thermostat settings a few degrees higher without compromising comfort, leading to significant energy savings. For every degree you raise the thermostat in summer, you can save about 3% on cooling costs.

How Do Ceiling Fans Lower Energy Bills?

So, how exactly do ceiling fans save energy? The secret lies in the improved air circulation, which can make a room feel several degrees cooler. This allows you to set your thermostat higher, reducing the load on your air conditioning system.

By using a ceiling fan and an air conditioner together, you can increase the thermostat setting by 4°F with no reduction in comfort. This reduced reliance on the AC unit leads to significant energy savings, helping to lower energy bills.

Not only do ceiling fans help save money on energy bills, but they also save you money on AC maintenance and repairs. Unlike air conditioners, ceiling fans require minimal upkeep and are less prone to breakdowns. The energy savings alone can easily offset the purchase price of a fan. 

Choosing the Right Ceiling Fan for Maximum Energy Savings

Did you know that choosing the right ceiling fan can significantly impact your energy savings? For example, an Energy Star-certified fan can increase efficiency by up to 20% compared to standard models. Thanks to its energy-saving design and features, you can enjoy a cooler space while reducing electricity consumption.

But it’s not just about certification. Size matters, too. A larger fan can circulate more air, providing a refreshing breeze at a lower speed. This means even greater energy savings without compromising on comfort.

Want to save money and energy on indoor lighting? Consider a ceiling fan with integrated lights. By combining both functions into one appliance, you can cut down on the need for additional light fixtures. Plus, if it comes with energy-efficient bulbs like LEDs, you’ll save even more. These bulbs use minimal electricity and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional ones.

Upgrade your ceiling fan today and start enjoying energy-efficient cooling and lighting in your space.

Additional Tips to Increase Energy Savings With Ceiling Fans

For those who are keen on leveraging the energy-saving potential of ceiling fans, we present a few additional strategies. These include proper usage, scheduled seasonal adjustments, regular maintenance, and coupling with other energy-efficient practices.

Scheduled Seasonal Adjustments

Seasonal adjustments can also enhance the efficiency of your ceiling fan. During the summer, set your fan to rotate counter-clockwise to push cool air down. In contrast, during the winter, switch the direction clockwise to help circulate warm air trapped near the ceiling. Most ceiling fans come with a small switch that allows you to change the rotation direction easily.

Regular Maintenance

Just like any other appliance, regular maintenance can significantly improve the efficiency of ceiling fans. Dust and dirt accumulation on fan blades can slow down the fan, leading to increased energy use. Regular cleaning of the fan blades can help maintain their efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

Pairing With Other Energy-Efficient Practices

By combining ceiling fans with other energy-efficient habits, you can maximize cost savings on your energy bills. This synergy ensures an optimal balance between comfort and saving money, ultimately benefiting both your pocket and the environment. 

For instance, using natural ventilation during cooler parts of the day or night can reduce the need for both air conditioning and ceiling fans. Also, consider using energy-efficient lighting around the house, as traditional bulbs can generate a lot of heat, thereby increasing your reliance on cooling systems. 

By adopting these strategies, you can maximize the energy-saving potential of your ceiling fans and contribute significantly to a more energy-efficient home environment.

How Staley Electric Can Help You Save Energy

At Staley Electric, we can replace your home’s lighting with more energy-efficient options such as LED lighting. LEDs use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. We also offer advanced home automation services to make your home smarter and more energy-efficient. With automation, you can control your home’s lighting, temperature, and other electronic systems remotely or via a set schedule. This not only guarantees that you return to a comfortable and well-lit home but also helps in reducing unnecessary energy use, enhancing both safety and efficiency.

Beyond lighting and automation, Staley Electric provides generator installation services. A backup generator can help make sure that your home remains operational and comfortable, even during power outages. This adds an extra layer of security and convenience to your energy-efficient home.

Trust the Professionals at Staley Electric

If you’re looking to save energy while still beating the scorching outdoor temperature, then a ceiling fan is the solution for you. Want to learn more about how installing ceiling fans can help you save money on your energy bill? Call Little Rock’s best electricians at Staley Electric to learn how you can save energy and money while still keeping cool.

How to Protect Appliances from Brownouts

How to Protect Appliances from Brownouts

Helpful Tips

You’re in the middle of cooking dinner when suddenly, your lights dim, and your appliances start acting up. If you’ve ever had to deal with this, you know how frustrating it can be. It may not be a power outage, but it might as well be. If you go through something like this, you’re experiencing a brownout, and it can wreak havoc on your favorite electrical devices.

At Staley Electric, we’ve been tackling brownouts for over 50 years. We know how to shield your cherished appliances from these power fluctuations and their effects, so let us show you how to keep your most used home appliances from succumbing to changes in electrical power.

What Causes Brownouts?

Brownouts occur when the voltage in your power grid drops below its normal level. This can happen for various reasons, such as high demand on the power grid, damaged power lines, or issues at the power plant. 

During hot summer months, when air conditioners are running full blast, the strain on the electrical system can lead to brownouts. Severe weather conditions, like storms or high winds, can also damage power lines and cause voltage drops. Sometimes, utility companies intentionally reduce voltage to prevent complete blackouts during periods of high demand. These voltage fluctuations can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, putting your electrical equipment at risk.

The Difference Between Brownouts and Blackouts

While both brownouts and blackouts involve disruptions to your power supply, they’re quite different. Brownouts are partial, temporary reductions in voltage, whereas blackouts are complete losses of power. 

During a brownout, your lights might dim, and your appliances may function poorly or shut off, but you still have some electricity. Blackouts, on the other hand, plunge you into total darkness with no power at all. 

Brownouts can be more damaging to your electrical devices because the fluctuating voltage can strain their components over time. Blackouts, while inconvenient, are less likely to harm your appliances directly. However, the sudden loss and restoration of power during a blackout can cause power surges, which can be harmful to your electrical equipment.

Consequences of an Electrical Brownout

Electrical brownouts can have serious consequences for your home and appliances. The fluctuating voltage during a brownout can cause your electrical devices to malfunction or even fail completely. Sensitive electronics like computers, TVs, and gaming consoles are particularly vulnerable to these power fluctuations. Your refrigerator and air conditioner may struggle to maintain proper temperature, potentially leading to food spoilage or discomfort. Motors in appliances like washing machines or dishwashers can overheat during brownouts, shortening their lifespan. In some cases, brownouts can even cause electrical fires if devices are overloaded. The cumulative effect of repeated brownouts can also lead to premature wear and tear on your appliances, costing you money in repairs or replacements.

Which Appliances and Electronics Are Most Vulnerable to Power Failures?

Power failures can affect a wide range of appliances and electronics in your home. Some of the most vulnerable devices include:

  1. Computers and laptops: These sensitive devices can suffer data loss or hardware damage from sudden power changes.
  2. Smart TVs and gaming consoles: Modern entertainment systems are packed with delicate electronics that can be easily disrupted by power fluctuations.
  3. Refrigerators and freezers: These appliances work hard to maintain consistent temperatures, and power failures can lead to food spoilage.
  4. HVAC systems: Air conditioners and heating systems can be damaged by voltage drops, potentially leading to expensive repairs.
  5. Washing machines and dryers: The motors in these appliances can burn out if subjected to repeated brownouts.
  6. Microwaves and electric ovens: These kitchen staples contain sensitive electronic components that can be affected by power surges.
  7. Routers and modems: Your home’s internet connection relies on these devices, which can be reset or damaged during power fluctuations.

What to Do to Protect Those Appliances

Brownouts can be a real headache, and we know they can impact many of your appliances. But thankfully, there are plenty of ways to protect your valuable electrical equipment from these power fluctuations. We’ll break them down below.

Install Surge Protectors

Surge protectors are your first line of defense against power fluctuations. These devices absorb excess voltage and prevent it from reaching your appliances. Plug your sensitive electronics and expensive appliances into surge protectors to shield them from sudden voltage spikes.

Better yet, consider whole-house surge protection! A whole-house surge protector is connected to your main electrical panel and safeguards all the circuits in your home from power surges and fluctuations.

Invest in Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)

Uninterruptible power supplies are sort of like batteries for your devices. They provide backup power during brownouts or blackouts, allowing you to safely shut down your equipment or keep critical devices running. UPS systems are especially useful for computers, servers, and other sensitive electronics.

Use Voltage Regulators

Voltage regulators help maintain a consistent voltage level for your appliances, even during brownouts. They can smooth out power fluctuations and protect your devices from harmful voltage drops or surges.

Upgrade Your Electrical Panel

An outdated electrical panel may not be equipped to handle modern power demands, and that can lead to brownouts or power outages. Upgrading your panel can improve your home’s electrical stability and reduce the risk of brownouts caused by internal issues.

Protect Your Most Importance Appliances

At Staley Electric, we’re here to help you safeguard your valuable appliances from the effects of brownouts. Our team can service your electrical panels and circuit breakers to maintain optimal performance. We’ll check your switches and outlets to identify any potential issues before they become problems. Rest easy knowing your home’s electrical system is prepared to handle whatever the power grid throws your way.