Save money energy hacks

10 Simple Ways to Save money energy hacks Bill (Without Sacrificing Comfort)

Let’s be honest: opening your electricity bill lately can feel like a mini panic attack. Whether you’re in the middle of a South African winter or a North American heatwave, energy costs are climbing — and fast. If you’re a woman trying to balance your home, family, and budget, you’re not alone. I used to think saving energy meant living in the dark or sweating it out — but thankfully, that’s not true. Today I’m sharing 10 simple, practical ways to reduce your electricity bill without giving up your comfort. These save money energy hacks are all things you can start doing today — no electrician needed. Let’s lighten the load (on your wallet and your home).

Flat-lay graphic with icons for Pinterest energy-saving tips

Unplug “Energy Vampires” Before Bed

Unplugging electronics before bed to reduce electricity bill

Did you know that devices plugged in — even when off — still drain power? These sneaky “energy vampires” include:

  • Chargers
  • Coffee makers
  • Microwaves
  • Microwaves
  • Wi-Fi routers (yes, even those!)

Try This: Use a power strip to easily switch off multiple devices at once each night. I keep one in the kitchen and another behind the TV. It’s a small habit that adds up quickly.

Wash Clothes in Cold Water (and Skip the Dryer)

Wash Clothes in Cold Water and Skip the Dryer

The hot water heater is one of the biggest energy guzzlers in your home. Unless you’re dealing with serious stains, cold water does the job just fine.

Laundry hacks that save:

  • Wash in cold water
  • Only do full loads
  • Hang-dry clothes whenever possible

Try This: Set a laundry day and make air-drying part of your routine. I hang everything on a folding rack near a sunny window — my clothes last longer too!

Switch to LED Bulbs in High-Use Rooms

Changing to LED bulbs in a cozy home for energy savings

Still using old incandescent bulbs? You’re literally burning money. LEDs use up to 85% less energy and last much longer.
Focus first on:

  • Kitchen
  • Living room
  • Bathroom
  • Porch/outdoor lights

Try This: Buy one LED bulb every week and slowly swap out your house. It’s budget-friendly and you won’t feel overwhelmed.

Adjust Your Fridge & Freezer Settings

Woman adjusting fridge temperature to save electricity

You don’t need your fridge running like an Arctic expedition. Set it to 37–40°F (3–4°C) and your freezer to 0°F (-18°C) — that’s the sweet spot for savings.

Also helpful:

  • Keep fridge ⅔ full for better circulation
  • Vacuum the coils once a season
  • Don’t leave the door open during meal prep

Try This: Set a reminder on your phone to check and clean your fridge coils. It only takes 10 minutes but helps more than you’d think!

Use Curtains Like Insulation

Insulated curtains in sunlit room for energy efficiency

Your windows could be working against your energy bill. Use them smartly with thermal or blackout curtains.

  • Close curtains during hot days to block heat
  • Open them in winter mornings to let sunlight warm your home
  • Close at night to trap in warmth

Try This: Layer sheer and blackout curtains for year-round flexibility — and that soft, Pinterest-worthy aesthetic.

Set a Timer on Your Geyser or Water Heater

Geyser timer setup for energy-efficient hot water use

This one’s especially useful for South African households. Heating water 24/7 is energy-intensive — but you don’t need hot water all day long.

  • Set it to switch on 1 hour before your morning shower
  • Turn it off during work hours
  • Use a smart plug or timer switch for easy control

Try This: I set mine to run early mornings and late evenings. Bonus: it helps the whole family stick to shorter showers!

Use a Fan Instead of Cranking the AC

Using a fan near window instead of AC to stay cool

Air conditioning is one of the biggest electricity hogs. A good-quality fan uses a fraction of the energy and can feel just as refreshing.

  • Ceiling fans: rotate counterclockwise in summer
  • Tower fans: perfect for bedrooms
  • Window fans: great for cross-breeze evenings

Try This: Place a bowl of ice in front of a fan for a DIY mini air cooler. Game-changer on humid days!

Turn Off the Oven — Use Alternatives

Using an air fryer for energy-efficient cooking at home

Ovens heat up your home and use tons of electricity. Try these alternatives:

  • Air fryer (uses less energy and cooks faster)
  • Slow cooker
  • Stove-top meals
  • Summer tip: BBQ outdoors to keep heat out of the kitchen

Try This: Make “no-oven Wednesdays” a thing — it turns energy-saving into a fun challenge.

Install Weather Stripping on Doors and Windows

DIY weather stripping being applied to save energy

Drafts can waste 10–20% of your energy. Weather stripping is a cheap, easy fix you can DIY in an afternoon.

Where to check:

  • Under exterior doors
  • Around windows
  • Garage doors
  • Attic entrances

Try This: Walk around your home with a candle or incense stick — if the flame flickers near a window, you’ve got a leak!

Embrace Natural Light

Laundry drying naturally indoors to save energy

Don’t reach for the light switch — open the blinds instead! Natural light is not only free, it’s good for your mood and productivity.

Tips:

  • Rearrange furniture to face the window
  • Use mirrors to reflect more light
  • Clean your windows regularly for max brightness

Try This: Create a morning routine where you open the curtains, stretch, and drink a glass of water. It’s a mood-lifter and an energy-saver.

Conclusion

Notebook with energy-saving goal and warm cozy setting

You don’t need to live in the dark or sacrifice comfort to lower your bill. These save money energy hacks are small but mighty — and when done consistently, they really pay off. Try just one or two this week and build from there.

Woman enjoying cozy home lifestyle while saving energy

FAQs

Depending on your location and usage, households can save 15–30% monthly by applying several of these tips consistently.

Yes! LEDs may cost a bit more upfront but last years longer and drastically cut electricity use.

 No — fridges need to run constantly to keep food safe. But adjusting temperature settings can help.

Use fans, block out heat with curtains, and cook without the oven to avoid heating your home.

Not at all! Simple plug-in timers are inexpensive, and smart plugs can even be controlled from your phone.

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